Joy consistently reads pop-culture and fashion magazines. She also enjoys watching reality dating shows. Although she appears to have a healthy body image, she does occasionally dress like the celebrities in the fashion magazines. She insists she does not want to look or act like the celebrities, but some friends are weary of her “tasteless” choices. What theory of learning could best explain how she is being affected by the magazines and TV. shows?

Question

A.Latent learning
B.Observational learning
C.Operant conditioning
D.Learned helplessness
E.Insight learning

Answer 1

B.Observational learning

Although a case could be made for operant conditioning, based on the information provided in the question, Joy is not being rewarded or punished for these choices, so observational learning would provide the best explanation. According to Bandura (1986) observational learning requires the presence of attention, memory, imitation, and motivation. Joy would seem to meet these four criteria. She actively chooses to read, watch, and thus pay attention to the shows and magazines. Joy also meets the criteria of memory and imitation by choosing to dress like the celebrities she sees. Finally, observational learning is much more likely to occur if the individual witnesses the model receiving a reward. Reality dating shows and magazines often reward or compliment individuals for low body weight, deviant sexual practices, and drug/alcohol abuse. Although Joy may never begin acting like a Hollywood scarlet, she should be aware of the influence of observational learning on her entertainment choices. Larger effects of observational learning on popular practices such as binge drinking can also be discussed.