Social learning theory & teaching adolescents - Case Study Example

Adolescence period is widely measured as the most crucial one in development process of a person’s life which demands consideration and care. Because of this reason, psychologists and educationalists suggest to practice various learning theories and approaches to ensure maximum output. Rapid growth in both physiological and psychological level is relevant in adolescent period. It is necessary to change the person suit for facing those mental and physical changes. Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory(Social Cognitive Theory) is widely accepted learning theory which gives more emphasis on observing and modeling.

Social Learning Theory is considered as the most significant one in the field of social learning theories. In1977, Bandura has coined the concept of perceived self-efficacy and identified that it has a strong relationship with better health, better social interaction and higher achievement. As Ralf Schwarzer and Reinhard Fuchs comments; “It has become a key variable in clinical, educational, social, developmental, health and personality psychology”. (Schwarzer, R., Fuchs, n.d.). Social Learning Theory is developed through the key aspects of cognitive and emotion of a person.

Social Learning Theory keeps its relevance in promoting health education among the adolescents. Therefore, it is significant to discuss that Social Learning Theory’s explanation on the formation of behavioral changes among the people. Behavioral changes among the adolescents have vital relationship with health and physical growth. In the initial stage children accept some behavioral changes or modification from their surroundings. Secondly, they closely observe parents and peer groups and accept some significant changes in their behavior.

The concept of self- efficacy is a significant part of Social Cognitive Theory. Self –efficacy is a belief which promotes positive re-enforcement, motivation and encouragement for children to engage social issues. Peter R. Hong rightly comments that “It is suggested that health empowerment can usefully be considered as a combination of two key concepts Self Efficacy and Health Literacy” (Hong, 2007, p. 43). Author highlights the relevance of the concept of self –efficacy in health education program among the adolescents.

An educator in health education program for adolescents can practice self- efficiency is an important way to give awareness adolescents. Changes in sexual and emotional field of an adolescent are subjected to the social, family, and individual factors. Attraction towards the opposite sex in the adolescent period enhances the need of experience within the mind of young boy or girl. Concept of self-efficiency in Social Learning Theory gives more emphasis on the process of behavior formation. Here an adolescent becomes aware about his role in the society.

He or she began to respect the self –efficiency of others and gradual changes are obvious in the nature an adult. Excessive frustration, aggressive behavior and anxiety are visible in adult life because of the presence of various hormones. Self –efficacy is a behavioral status that forced a person to look himself as well his surroundings his extreme self assists the adolescent to overcome sudden emotional vibrations. This “can do” effect enriches a positive re-enforcement or sense of control.

Skinner’s Cognitive learning theories promotes learning for adolescents and reader can find some similarities between Bandura’s Social Learning Theory and Skinner’s Cognitive Theories. The major difference is that Skinner concentrates the use of reinforcement for learner. Social Constructive Theory, developed by Vygotsky, also put forward similar ideologies and view points to facilitate health education among the adult people. Appropriate knowledge and awareness about physical changes, gender demands, emotional transactions and sexual desires are essential for an adult when he or she entered adultery.

Scaffolding helps the adults to acquire more knowledge about health issues and changes.