According to social cognitive theory, which method is a key way that people learn?

Social cognitive theory emphasizes the importance of observing and modeling the behaviors, attitudes, and emotional reactions of others. A foundational concept within this theory is that people learn not only through direct reinforcement and punishment but also through the observation of others being reinforced or punished for their behaviors. This method, known as observational learning or imitation, highlights how individuals can acquire new behaviors by watching others and the outcomes of those behaviors rather than through their own direct experiences alone.

In this view, reinforcement and punishment play a pivotal role, as they contribute to the likelihood that the observed behavior will be replicated. For example, if an individual sees someone rewarded for a specific action, they may be motivated to imitate that behavior in hopes of receiving similar rewards. The integration of cognitive processes, such as attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation, further supports learning through observation as a critical aspect of how behaviors are acquired.

The other options, such as social isolation, instinctual drives, and the idea of learning solely through life experiences, do not align with the core principles of social cognitive theory. These options either suggest a lack of social interaction or imply that learning happens without the variety of influences that observational learning provides.