Social Learning Models (From Correctional Counseling and Rehabilitation, Third Edition, P 145-161, 1997, Patricia Van Voorhis, Michael Braswell, et al, eds. - See NCJ-169329)

• NCJ Number: 169336
• Author(s): P Van Voorhis
• Date Published: 1997
• Length: 17 pages
• Sale Source: Anderson Publishing Co
• Publication Type: Overview Text
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Social learning programs dominate many correctional programs, largely due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness, but social learning interventions also take cognitive processes into account.

Abstract

Most of what individuals learn over the life course has been learned vicariously through observing and imitating others. The function of a role model and the modeling process are crucial in this perspective. Social learning approaches emphasize modeling, or providing a means for clients to observe and imitate goal behaviors a particular therapy is designed to teach. Only certain individuals function as effective role models. Factors that differentiate persons who are imitated from those who are not include attractiveness, competence, and being rewarded for one's behavior. Social learning is a complex process that is based on attention, retention, motor reproduction, and motivation. Examples of social learning interventions in corrections and an example of structured learning skills for adolescents are given. 1 note and 2 figures