According to social learning theory in social psychology, learning primarily occurs from which of the following sources?

• A. Genetic inheritance and biological predispositions
• B. Observing and imitating the behavior of others
• C. Direct reinforcement and punishment only
• D. Classical conditioning through repeated associations

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that social learning theory emphasizes the role of observation and imitation in the learning process, rather than innate biological factors or direct conditioning alone.
2. Recognize that genetic inheritance and biological predispositions relate more to innate traits, not learned behaviors through social contexts.
3. Recall that direct reinforcement and punishment are components of operant conditioning, which is different from social learning theory's focus on observational learning.
4. Note that classical conditioning involves learning through associations between stimuli, which is distinct from learning by watching others.
5. Conclude that according to social learning theory, the primary source of learning is through observing and imitating the behavior of others.