Modeling of Behavior

Definition

Modeling is one way in which behavior is learned. When a person observes the behavior of another and then imitates that behavior, he or she is modeling the behavior. This is sometimes known as observational learning or social learning. Modeling is a kind of vicarious learning in which direct instruction need not occur. Indeed, one may not be aware that another is modeling his or her behavior. Modeling may teach a new behavior, influence the frequency of a previously learned behavior, or increase the frequency of a similar behavior.

Components of Modeling

Four steps are involved in the modeling of behavior. The first is attention. Before a behavior can be replicated, one must pay attention to the behavior. The next step is retention. One must be able ...

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