If the principles of social learning theory are true, then children may model aggressive behaviour after dreaming they were on television after seeing a television character receive a reward for taking violent action against another character after seeing a television character being punished for taking violent action against another character after dreaming about having a fight with their parents.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer would be: True.
Explanation:
Social Learning Theory, developed by Albert Bandura, emphasizes that individuals can learn behaviors through observation and imitation, especially when they see others being rewarded or punished for those behaviors. In the context of children, this theory is often applied to understand how media, including television, can influence their behavior, particularly regarding aggression.
In the scenario provided, children may model aggressive behavior after seeing a television character receiving a reward for violent actions. According to the principles of Social Learning Theory, children are likely to imitate behaviors they observe, especially if those behaviors are reinforced (i.e., rewarded). This reinforcement increases the likelihood that the child will replicate the behavior. For example, if a character on television aggressively hurts another character and is rewarded with praise or a desirable outcome, children may learn to associate aggression with positive outcomes, increasing the likelihood of them acting out similarly.
Additionally, if children see a character being punished for violent behavior, they may also learn that aggression can lead to negative consequences. However, the theory suggests that the rewards for aggressive behavior are often more influential in determining whether a child will engage in similar actions. If the child is exposed to such behaviors repeatedly, especially in a dream-like or mediated context (such as a dream about being on television), it may have a stronger effect on their perception of the behavior as acceptable.
The last part of the scenario involves a dream about fighting with parents. If this dream is influenced by media portrayals, it may make the child more likely to engage in aggressive behaviors in real-life situations, especially if they have seen similar actions rewarded or modeled on television.
In conclusion, Social Learning Theory posits that media portrayals, rewards, and punishments significantly influence children’s behaviors. The exposure to violence, particularly when rewarded, can lead children to model aggressive actions.