Psychological explanations for AN: social learning theory

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What is modelling?
An observing imitating the behaviour of a role model.
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How can modelling be a cause of AN?
The model acts as a template for their behaviour, which is then imitated. The model also establishes what is normal. For example a child seeing their older sibling restrict food may see this behaviour as normal
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What can make a model more influential?
If the observer identifies with the model. For example if the child sees them as successful and associates their thinness with the models desirable characteristic
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What is reinforcement?
A consequence of behaviour that increases the likelihood of that behaviour being repeated. This can be positive or negative.
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How is vicarious reinforcement linked to AN?
The person cannot simply observe the behaviour but will be affected by observing the consequences of the behaviour. For example if they see someone being praised for losing weight then they're more likely to imitate this behaviour
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How is this especially observed in the family?
Because the family spend a lot of time together the observing is likely to be vicariously reinforced many times over a long period of time. This makes imitation more likely and frequent.
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What role does the media play in AN?
The media provides symbolic models and is a transmitter of cultural ideals about body shape and size. In western cultures this is now size 0
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Card 2

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How can modelling be a cause of AN?

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The model acts as a template for their behaviour, which is then imitated. The model also establishes what is normal. For example a child seeing their older sibling restrict food may see this behaviour as normal

Card 3

Front

What can make a model more influential?

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

What is reinforcement?

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

How is vicarious reinforcement linked to AN?

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Preview of the front of card 5
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