Social Learning Theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Social Learning Theory - Essay Example One of the key assumptions of Bandura was that the environment of a person creates his or behavior therefore if it is necessary to improve the behavior of the individuals, it is critical that the environment must be improved or constructive to allow people to learn positive traits. The social learning theory from the criminology perspective has largely been developed by Akers , Burgess as well as the work of Sutherland. An associated concept with this theory is also the concept of differential association theory which suggests that criminal behaviors could be learned through interactions with others. The implementation of a new policy change by the Anytown’s department therefore may be a step towards ensuring that the children are not exposed to the abusive behaviors and their learning should take place in more healthy and positive environment. The decision to separate children from the abusive parents or caretakers therefore may be seen from different perspectives as it may b e better action however could lead to different ethical and moral implications too. Moral and Ethical Implications A society comprises of different individual units and family is one of the most important units in any given society. According to Social learning theorists, people tend to learn the moral behaviors over the period of time therefore children specially see their parents as models for what is right and wrong. As such the overall development of a child’s moral and ethical perspectives is firmly connected with their parents and guardians. What is also important to understand that when children grow as adults and have to make their own moral judgments they often rely on the values... Social Learning Theory It is however, critical that the learning through this interaction may also have different impacts on the children also. However, this move may also point out certain important ethical and moral implications too if the policy is implemented. One of the key questions which could therefore be raised may be based upon the argument that the families and parents may lose their control over their children as well as the children may be dependent on others for their overall development. Apart from assessing the moral and ethical implications of the proposed policy change, this paper will also make an assessment of the effect on those who are involved and will be implicated under this change. The impact on the society as a whole as well as the family as a unit will also be discussed and explored in this paper. Before discussing the moral and ethical implications of this policy change, it is important to provide a theoretical background of Social Learning Theory. This is also important due to the fact that department has made a reference to this theory as an academic argument in favor of this policy change. The decision to implement a new policy change to protect children from the abusive and criminal behavior of their parents may be considered as a better decision by the department. Though children may face the issues like identity as well as role he is forced to play however, if children are provided better opportunities to be groomed as positive and more constructive citizens, this action may be considered as effective.