Journal of Philosophy and Theology

Biblical Perspectives on Albert Bandura Theory of Observational Learning
Adeoye, Ayodele, Olusegun; Ojewole, Afolarin Olutunde, Babalola, James Adeyemi Oluwatoyin

Abstract
The social theories about behavioral modification, social learning, modeling, mentoring, and such like have been of great interest to both physical and social scientist over the ages. Albert Bandura built on existing theories with his groundbreaking theory of observational learning. His theory suggests the existence of four cognitive-mediational sub-processes comprising of attention, retention, motor reproduction, and the incentive-motivational reinforcement. Bandura posits that an individual can observe a model, covertly learn the new behavior, and decide whether or not to exhibit the behavior depending on the consequences associated with that behavior (Bandura, 1974). This theory needs to be further examined to elucidate its biblical perspectives. This is the focus of this paper. The Christian Scriptures suggest Bandura’s theory’s relevance in the area of children observational learning, adult observational learning, and observational learning from nature and the law.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijpt.v2n3a13