Who is the theorist associated with Social Cognitive Theory?

Albert Bandura is the theorist associated with Social Cognitive Theory, which emphasizes the role of observational learning, imitation, and modeling in the development of behavior. Bandura proposed that people learn not just through their own experiences, but by watching others and reflecting on those observations, which highlights the social aspect of learning.

His work introduced key concepts such as self-efficacy, which is the belief in one’s ability to succeed in specific situations. This theory has profound implications for education and special education, as it underscores the importance of creating environments where students can observe positive behaviors and receive reinforcement, promoting their social and emotional development alongside academic learning.

The other theorists listed each have distinct contributions to psychology and education. Piaget's theory of cognitive development focuses on how children construct their understanding of the world through stages of development. Vygotsky emphasized social interaction and cultural context in cognitive development, advocating for the zone of proximal development and the importance of language. Erikson's psychosocial theory outlines the stages of social development across the lifespan, focusing on identity and interpersonal relationships. Their theories do not encompass the observational learning and behavioral aspects central to Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory.