Module 8

ENGAGE 2 Bandura's Social Learning Theory
1. Read the following news article.
10-Year-Old Boy in Texas Hangs Himself After Watching Saddam Execution
The Associated Press
HOUSTON Jan 4, 2007 (AP)
Paraphrased Text:
A 10-year-old boy, Sergio Pelico, tragically died by hanging himself in his Houston-area
bedroom. Police believe he may have been mimicking the execution of Saddam
Hussein, which he had seen on TV. Sergio's uncle said he had asked about Saddam's
death and was told that he was "real bad."
While his mother was at work, Sergio was found dead by a sibling. Police determined
that he had tied a noose around his neck while on a bunk bed. Although he had been
upset about not receiving a Christmas gift from his father, investigators don't believe he
intended to die.
A clinical psychologist, Edward Bischof, explained that children this age often mimic
risky behaviors from TV without understanding the consequences. He believes TV may
have been the catalyst for Sergio's actions.
Sergio's family held a memorial for him and is working to raise funds to send his body to
Guatemala for burial. His uncle expressed frustration with the TV show for depicting
Saddam's execution in such a way.
(retrieved from www.abcnews.go.com)
EXPLORE 2 Bandura's Social Learning Theory

1. What do authorities say might be the reason why Sergio hanged himself?
What facts made them give this reason?
Authorities believe Sergio's hanging may have been accidental mimicking behavior. They base
this on the following facts:
Sergio had recently watched a news report about Saddam Hussein's execution. He
was curious and asked his uncle about it. His uncle provided an explanation, which
Sergio seemed to accept. There were no indications that he was planning to harm
himself, such as a farewell note or signs of depression.
2. Comment on the opinion of the clinical psychologist.
Clinical psychologist Edward Bischof supports the theory of accidental mimicking. He

suggests children often imitate risky behaviors they see on television without understanding the
dangers.
3. What do you think is the effect of television on the behavior of young people (preschool
to college)? Cite specific examples.
Television can significantly influence young people's behavior, both positively and
negatively. Educational shows can teach valuable lessons and promote positive
development, while exposure to violence and risky behaviors can have harmful effects.
Excessive screen time can also displace important activities like play and social
interaction, leading to negative consequences for children's health and well-being.
EXTEND WITH SYNAPSE STRENGTHENERS
1. How are Tolman's Purposive Behaviorism and Bandura's Social Learning theory able to
bridge behaviorism and cognitive theory?
Tolman's Purposive Behaviorism and Bandura's Social Learning Theory bridge

behaviorism and cognitive theory in these ways:
 Internal Processes: Both Tolman and Bandura recognized the importance of

internal mental processes in learning, unlike traditional behaviorism.
 Cognitive Maps: Tolman introduced the idea of "cognitive maps," mental
representations that guide behavior, suggesting internal planning and goal-
directed actions.
 Observational Learning: Bandura emphasized the role of observational
learning and social interaction, suggesting cognitive processes like attention,
memory, and self-efficacy influence whether observed behaviors are adopted.
 Beyond Reinforcement: Both theories expanded beyond the stimulus-response
model, recognizing that learning can occur even without immediate rewards.
 Latent Learning: Tolman demonstrated "latent learning," where animals learned
the layout of a maze even without food rewards, suggesting learning for future
use.
 Observational Learning: Bandura focused on observational learning, where
individuals learn by watching others without directly experiencing consequences.
2. Read this article about Bandura's views about television and violence, Albert Bandura
Lecture-Bing Distinguished Lecture Series "The Power of Social Modeling: The Effects of
Television Violence" by Christine Van De Velde (at http://www.stanford.edu/dept/
bingschool/rsrchart/bandura.htm). Make a reaction paper.
Albert Bandura's research on social learning theory demonstrates that children can
learn aggressive behaviors simply by observing them in media. Repeated exposure to
violence can desensitize children to its negative consequences and lead them to adopt
violent behaviors as a coping mechanism.
Young children may have difficulty distinguishing between fantasy and reality, making
them more susceptible to imitating violent behaviors seen on television. Television
violence can shape children's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.
Parents can play a crucial role by monitoring their children's viewing habits, discussing
content, and encouraging other activities. Media literacy education can equip children
with critical thinking skills to evaluate media content. Creating more positive and
constructive content can also promote healthy development.
By understanding the potential consequences of television violence and taking proactive

steps, we can create a safer and healthier environment for children.

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ENGAGE 2 Bandura's Social Learning Theory

1. Read the following news article.

10-Year-Old Boy in Texas Hangs Himself After Watching Saddam Execution

The Associated Press

HOUSTON Jan 4, 2007 (AP)

(retrieved from www.abcnews.go.com)

EXPLORE 2 Bandura's Social Learning Theory

What facts made them give this reason?

2. Comment on the opinion of the clinical psychologist.

Clinical psychologist Edward Bischof supports the theory of accidental mimicking. He

EXTEND WITH SYNAPSE STRENGTHENERS

Tolman's Purposive Behaviorism and Bandura's Social Learning Theory bridge

 Internal Processes: Both Tolman and Bandura recognized the importance of

By understanding the potential consequences of television violence and taking proactive

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