Psychology of Observational Learning in Childhood - Essay Example

Psychology of Observational Learning in Childhood: Synopsis: The following exploration will consider the theory psychology of observations in childhood then apply it to the child character Zack in "Kindergarten Cop". It will consider also the theory behind the psychology of a child observing a violent parenting relationship and the importance of having a role model in the educational system in order to combat the negatives such observations can create. Finally this essay will go through the various observations and the effects on the child character Zack and his relationship with John. Initially this discussion will summarize the movie and set of the observational strategy. "Kindergarten Cop" The movie, "Kindergarten Cop" is about a Los Angeles narcotics detective, John Kimble (Arnold Schwarzenegger) who had been trying to hunt a drug dealer by the name of Culler Crisp for years. When he finally tracks down Culler, it seems that Culler's ex-wife was the only person who could testify against him. So John is sent to Oregon to track down Culler's wife and son, and there he's faced with the toughest assignments of his life; which was to be a kindergarten teacher. In his class John notices a boy named Zack, who has bruises on his body which shows that he is a victim of physical abuse and so is his mother. But whenever John tries to talk to Mrs. Sullivan, she avoids him as well as other parents who come to pick their kids after school. And unless Mrs. Sullivan pressed charges against her husband, she and her son Zack would remain victims of Mr. Sullivan's physical abuse, and the school administration totally helpless to protect the child. Observation To record my finding I used the narrative observation technique to record the behavioral problems of my subject, a kindergarten child named Zack Sullivan, who is a character in the movie; "Kindergarten Cop." I used the visual representation of the data collected and kept a checklist of the target behavior. I then give an explanation of the data, followed by an analysis.Observational or social learning, which is also know as the social learning theory is related to the observer's behavioral changes that take place after viewing the behavior or a model. The behavior of an observer may be affected by the negative or positive consequences, also know as vicarious punishments or vicarious reinforcement of a model's behavior. Observational learning, which is primarily based on Albert Bandura's work (1966) believes that since observers can only acquire perceptual and other implicit responses which resemble the sequences of modeling stimuli while they are occurring, therefore, the symbolic processes that mediate subsequent behavioral reproductions must play a prominent role in observational learning. With the help of experiments, Bandura and his colleagues were able to demonstrate that for learning to take place, the application of consequences was not necessary, rather it could occur simply by observing someone else perform an activity. Limitations Although the observation method of watching Zack and writing down his behavior during the different appearances in the movie was quite effective, but the limitations of this observation were the shortage of time we could closely observe Zack and his behavior. The written record of observation, performance and participation does not provide us with enough data for research hypotheses. The target checklist and the written observations do not reveal much information as the subject was observed for a few minutes in each class scene. However, greater number of observational sessions, spread over longer periods of time would surely reveal accurate information of the behavioral problems of Zack or children like him and thus help the individual with the most suitable psychological therapy. Thus we conclude that observing behavior in a natural setting is an important part of the evaluation process and observations should occur in familiar places so that the individual is comfortable and has the opportunity to demonstrate typical behavior. Observations add a critical dimension to the psychological evaluation process, particularly when they are used in conjunction with objective tests, behavioral checklists, interviews, questionnaires and a video tape in natural or familiar settings along with other evaluation strategies. These studies require careful characterization of behavioral variation and outcomes. Such characterization is becoming increasingly complex and requires sophisticated methodologies which can capture behavior with precision at multiple levels of analysis. Observational Theory: The chief observational techniques used in psychological research are the naturalistic observation, systematic assessment and experimentation. This naturalistic observational strategy refers to the collection of data without manipulating the environment. The researchers look for cause-and-effect relationships between events and patterns of behavior. Psychological researches chiefly use the naturalistic observation as an exploratory technique, to gain insight and ideas for later testing. The limitations for this method are that it is a descriptive method and not explanatory, which means that without the controlled conditions of a laboratory, conclusions about cause-and-effect relationship cannot be drawn. This method can take a lot of time and it is difficult to code results in an appropriate manner for statistical analysis. A social psychologist can also observe effective processes of personality with the help of an interview which can be with an individual or a group. According to Ann Lewis (1992) group interviews, as compared to individual interviews, may generate richer responses by allowing the participants to challenge the views of others. The time duration of an interview, whether long or short can also influence the data collected for research. Another technique, the analogue behavioral observation involves the measurement of an individual's overt behavior in a contrived situation that is analogous to situations, that he is likely to encounter in his natural environment. The aim is to derive valid estimates of the individual's behavior in a current or future environment. This observational strategy can be useful in detecting important functional relations in clinical assessments. However, analogue behavioral observational instruments can be sensitive to change; their validity can erode over time and is affected by numerous sources of variance. Observing the problem behavior of an individual and describing the condition that surrounds it is called 'direct assessment' which includes the events before 'antecedent' and after 'consequence' to the individual behavior of interest. Whereas, 'indirect assessment' relies on interviews with the ones who have direct contact with the individual. But with this observation strategy there is a chance that the information given by others might not be that accurate and therefore, would not help in correct data collection to carry out the research. Psychology of the Child in Observing a Violent Parenting Relationship: In respect to children a lot of behavior is learned from observation of adults, therefore if a child has a parent who is violent towards the other this can create a learned behavior of being withdrawn and quiet like the victim or violent and demanding like the perpetrator. Therefore parenting and schooling is important to the development of the child. The problems of the violent parenting relationships is that it impedes the development of the child by making them anti-social in adult society, which will be highlighted in the following discussion; as well as illustrating the problems that uninvolved parenting has in the development of the child. This has resulted in a situation where; children are intimidated and bullied by other children's anti-social behavior; children lose the value of learning and the promotion of their intellect because of lack of consistency and social skills. Without proper steps taken by the authorities children of violent parenting relationships are more likely to take guns into school and murder their peers on the masses; children are not taught to respect other's human rights because their own rights are eroded by their parent. Or, become the victim of bullies, the child needs support from not only the parent that is the victim but also the school system. This is the role that John plays for Zack and creates a positive role model. Violent parenting relationships have devastating effects on the child, such as creating a societal system of criminals, because the parents failed to respect the child. This has wider societal effects because parents who are involved in their children's lives are starting to make their children retreat from society through the growing movement to home schooling, which is creating and educational system full of abused children. This results in schools where neglected children are a high percentage, which distorts the picture where children believe the abuse of human rights is normal. It is normal to have guns in school or gangs, to not develop their social and intellectual skills because they will either end up as a criminal, teenage pregnancy or recipient of welfare. There needs to be better social responsibility from all levels in society, starting at the level of parenting. If this is lacking at the parental level society should step in and ensure these children learn their social worth and the correct manner to treat others, this is where the educational system is essential and the use of role models of parenting is necessary. However there are critics of Holt's proposal and argue that such schooling teaches children that their individual needs are more important than the larger society and impedes the goals of democracy.1 Yet a question of social development in the modern world is inherently tied into children's understanding of human rights and respect for the individuals; as well as adherence to law and governance in respect to promoting a civil society. In short involved parenting is essential to children to respect and promote individualism and human rights within the context of their culture, rather than just the objective, anti-social institutions of modern education. This is why there are those who promote all learning and schooling at home, because the parent is completely involved in the child's life and this creates a socially responsible, loving, caring and diligent child. Therefore maybe theorists such as Holt who are right in their promotion of home schooling as an effective remedy for the problems in children's social development2; because there is a definite link between the creation of socially irresponsible, anti-social and even criminal individuals when there is violent parenting relationships; where in the case of Zack it is the teacher John that creates the observational role model for becoming a rounded child. The question that needs to be asked is it right for society to drop these children for the wrongs of the parent; therefore theorists such as Franzosa argue that this argument is too simplified and a more complex, multifaceted approach to institutional education is necessary. Holt's advocacy of a single solution to the multiplicity of problems we now face in education is nave and misleading. Further, the social thesis he uses to support that solution signifies a retreat from any collective consideration of educational ideals and a dismissal of the idea that communities have any educational responsibilities to their members.3 It is necessary to promote a system that punishes uninvolved parents, such as through prosecution through truancy, and promotes social responsibility through the education system through proper integration of the socially advantaged and disadvantaged children. Observations and "Kindergarten Cop": A psychologist can use different observational techniques and strategies to identify problems related to an individual or group. As a student of psychology, I carried out an observational assessment of a kindergarten child named Zack Sullivan in the movie "Kindergarten Cop." The character attracted my attention because he was unlike the other kids of his age. And therefore, from a psychological view point, was a case to be studied. "Kindergarten Cop" Observation: Zack is one of the students in John's kindergarten class in the Astoria Elementary School, who does not show the sprit of life like his other classmates; and remains quiet and withdrawn. When John comes into the class with the Principal Miss Schlowski for the first time, the children hardly notice them and continue screaming and running around the class, but not Zack. After the children have been informed that he would be their new teacher, John tries to get them involved by asking them how many were born in Astoria and how many in some other states; and indirectly tries to get information about the new kids in the town. By looking at the behavior and responses made by Zack in the class, unlike other children, we notice that there is more to his behavior than is know by the teacher and the school management. On the second day John tries to involve the kids in a new game and says that the game is called, "Who is my daddy and what does he do" to get further information about the kids and their background for his investigation. The very first time, we as observers notice Zack; is when the class is busy telling John about their father's profession, Zack is totally uninvolved with what is happening around him. When John asks who the boy with his back towards him is, even then Zack doesn't take notice of his teacher and remains totally unattached with the surroundings. It's the children who tell John Zack's name and inform him that he doesn't like anyone to talk to him. The kids make fun of Zack, but even then he pays no attention to what they say and remains involved in playing with his toy. At this point, John as a teacher and as Zack's savior; steps in and discourages the kids from being rude. John also tries to get the quiet little boy involved in the game the class is playing but Zack refuses to do so; and says that he wanted to be left alone. In the next class scene, John tries to make the kids follow directions so that they wouldn't be late for the fire drill which had happened once before and involves them first in a game of fetching toys and bringing them to the carpet after hearing one whistle sound, and then taking the toy back from where they got it, at the sound of two whistles. This is when we notice that John had been successful in getting not only the other kids involved, but also Zack into that class activity. John is happy to see the withdrawn child showing a little interest in the new game. We even notice that Zack is doing better than the other kids and is encouraged by John, who call out loud to the class that Zack was the winner of the game. Gradually John involves the class not only into being a bit disciplined, but also active and ready to follow his orders. We see Zack also beginning to take interest in his surroundings and although he still keeps to himself most of the times, we observe some positive change in his attitude and behavior. We notice that he is gradually coming out of his shell and as he was deprived of his father's love, John's concern for him and his caring attitude might have helped Zack come out of his withdrawn behavior. We then see Zack with his mother and John introduces himself to Mrs. Sullivan, saying that he had been trying to talk to her and had left many messages too. Mrs. Sullivan is aware of the subject John wanted to discuss and says that he must be referring to the bruises on Zack's legs and that Mr. Sullivan had started already started going for counseling and things would soon improve and there won't be any more such occurrences of violence and no more bruises on Zack's body. She requests John not to bring the school into the matter. John does tell her that if he ever found bruises on Zack's body again, he would press charges against Mr. Sullivan. After that we see Zack coming late to school and his mother tells John that the car wouldn't start so he was late. Zack is seen with fresh bruises on his body and the mother tries to cover it up by saying that he had had a bad fall. Then Mr. Sullivan comes towards John and addresses him in a threatening manner, telling him to stay out of his business. John tells Mr. Sullivan that if he ever beat Zack again, he would be sorry and he would press charges against him for abusing his wife and child. Then there is a trouble scene and Mr. Sullivan receives the same treatment he had been giving his wife and son. In the rest of the class scenes, Zack is not projected specifically but only with the rest of his classmates. Although there are not too many individual scenes in the movie related to Zack, but the few appearances he makes, leave a mark on the observer. Zack's quiet and withdrawn behavior captures the viewer's eye and makes a strong impression on their minds and hearts. In many ways the character of Zack represents the problems associated with violent or uninvolved parents, because at the end of the movie the criminal that John is on the search for is the father of Zack. This criminal wants to take Zack away from his mother. Zack does not want this because he loves his mother and he witnessed the violence towards his mother and others. Analysis On different occasions in the movie Zack was observed to participate in certain class activities but showed the withdrawn and nonsocial in all appearances, throughout the movie. Symptoms of shyness or withdrawal may appear as part of a child's personality or a particular stress factor. Other factors may result from specific experiences or environmental causes. According to Thompson and Rudolph (1992) a withdrawn, unresponsive and uncommunicative child may feel discomfort and inhibition in the presence of others. A child's verbally abusive behavior can be addressed, whereas, it is difficult to directly identify or remediate a student's conduct disorder, since the term may refer to a variety of behaviors of widely different magnitude. In such cases the most effective approach is to pinpoint the specific behavioral problem and try to remediate it. Zack was observed to take little interest in working with classmates. Shy children may need direct instruction in social skills training programs for elementary school students and collaboration between teachers and parents. (Sheridan, Kratochwill, & Elliot, 1990). It was also noticed that when the teacher (John) intervened and encouraged Zack, he did participate in most activities but remained totally withdrawn during the first game, "Who is your daddy and what does he do" and felt uncomfortable when he was called out and do as the other kids in the class were doing. Brophy (1995) surveyed that effective responses by teachers like encouraging increased responsiveness, engaging in special activities etc. and abstaining from threat or punishment proves helpful for such children. According to Oaklander, (1988) it is part of an educators job to find effective ways to help children through difficult passages in their academic and personal lives. Zack being totally withdrawn from everyone and everything can also be an indication that he liked to live in a make believe world. Conclusion: Thus we conclude from the analysis that Zack's withdrawn behavior was a result of delayed social development because of the abusive environment he had at home. He was also not getting love, care and attention from his father and most probable his mother too, which was adversely affecting his emotional and social behavior. In such cases it would be beneficial to involve the child in conversation and activities of his interest. Even if only for a few minutes talking to children like Zack and listening carefully and responding specifically to what they tell, would help improve their behavior. Bibliography Albert Bandura, Joan E. Grusec, Frances L. Menlove. (1966). Observational Learning as a Function of Symbolization and Incentive Set. Child Development, Vol. 37, No. 3. p. 499-506. Blanco, R., and D. Bogacki. (1988). Prescriptions for Children with Learning and Adjustment Problems: A Consultant's Desk Reference (3rd ed.). Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas. Brophy, J. (1995). Elementary Teachers' Perceptions of and Reported Strategies for Coping with Twelve Types of Problem Students. 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Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press, Inc. Thompson, C., and L. Rudolph. (1992). Counseling Children. (3rd ed.) Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole. ______________________________ Read More