Observational learning, also known as social learning theory, occurs when an observer's behavior changes after viewing a model's behavior. There are four key steps to observational learning: attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation. Bandura's famous Bobo doll experiments demonstrated that children will imitate aggressive behaviors they observe in models, especially if the model receives reinforcement. Social learning theory explains how behaviors like aggression are developed and how environmental experiences can influence children's learning of violence.
![Definition ,[object Object],[object Object],Observational learning, also known as social learning theory, occurs when an observer’s behavior changes after viewing the behavior of a model. An observer’s behavior can be affected by the positive or negative consequences – called vicarious reinforcement or vicarious punishment – of a model’s behavior. (Bandura 1986)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)