Based on the scenario below, identify the new behavioral response that was acquired and analyze the key elements of the situation that enabled this learning to occur.

Learning from an Online Tutorial

One way observational learning occurs is through the acquisition of a new behavioral response. For example, after observing a coworker being reprimanded for tardiness, an individual might learn to start leaving for work earlier to avoid a similar negative outcome.

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According to Lefrançois (2012), observational learning can manifest in several distinct ways: an individual can learn an entirely new response, choose whether to imitate a model based on observed consequences, or learn a general rule that can be applied to other situations.

Ways Observational Learning Can Occur

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Learning a New Response through Observation

Observational learning involves a cognitive decision to imitate a model, a choice that is heavily influenced by the observed outcomes of the model's actions. A learner is more likely to copy a behavior that leads to success (like a surfer's technique) and avoid one that results in harm (like touching a hot stove).

Choosing Whether to Imitate Based on Observed Consequences

Beyond imitating specific actions, observational learning allows an individual to abstract a general rule from what they have witnessed. This abstracted principle can then be applied to various other contexts and situations.

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