Question

Prompt: What are the similarities and the differences between the Operant Conditioning Theory (positive and negative reinforcement, punishment, & extinction) & Social Cognition Theory (vicarious learning, self control, self efficacy),

Answer 1

The operant conditioning theory was proposed by Skinner and the social learning theory was given by Bandura. Both Social Learning Theory and Operant conditioning theory account for how organisms learn behavior. Unlike classical conditioning, these theories emphasize on the behaviors that are voluntary i.e.. the organism has control over them. Both the theories acknowledge the role of reinforcement in learning. While Skinner's theory is based entirely on reinforcement, Bandura believes that reinforcement has more to do about an individual displaying a learned behavior.

The major difference between the lies in their basic assumptions. The Operant conditioning theory does not acknowledge the role of cognitive processes. It believes that internal processes have little or nothing to do with learning. Social Learning theory on the other hand acknowledges the role of internal processes such as vicarious learning, self efficacy and motivation. In operant conditioning, learning is seen as the direct product of reinforcement. Nothing really goes on inside the organism's head that make him emit a behavior. Social Learning theory, however, places due emphasis on cognitive processes while describing learning.