Who is recognized for developing the Theory of Social Learning?

The Theory of Social Learning was developed by Albert Bandura, who emphasized the importance of observational learning, imitation, and modeling in the social context. Bandura's work demonstrated that individuals can learn new behaviors by watching others and that this learning occurs not only through direct experience but also through social interactions. His famous Bobo doll experiment illustrated how children imitate aggressive behavior they observed in adults, highlighting the impact of role models in shaping behavior. Bandura's theory introduced the concept of self-efficacy, which involves an individual's belief in their ability to succeed, further contributing to the understanding of learning processes. This comprehensive approach showcases the interplay between personal, behavioral, and environmental factors in learning, thus establishing Bandura as a pivotal figure in educational psychology and child development.