Askers Social Learning Theory

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Akers social learning theory Introduction In this assignment the writer will explain the statement “Asker is of the opinion that both law-abiding behaviour and criminal behaviour can be explained in terms of his social learning theory (differential reinforcement)”, by addressing the four key elements of Askers theory and including practical examples. Definition of Differential reinforcement. This is the element that is the centre of Askers theory. Differential reinforcement refers to the real results that one would expect from a specific action. The feeling of wellbeing that a person gets after committing a crime, is a reward and also a positive reinforcement to continue committing crimes. However, if the person has had a negative experience, ie almost caught when they committed the crime there will be negative reinforcement and this discourage future crime. I.e.; a person who robs a house and sets the alarm off and the police ends up arresting them which they end up being sentenced to a term in prison, the consequences and the unpleasantness of the prison time may deter them from committing crime again. Differential association According to Askers social learning theory, the important point of social learning is differential association. This refers to how often a person interacts with others who either encourage or discourage violating the law. In the process of differential, social learning comes first. A person will interact and identify with the people and groups that will provide models for social reinforcement and behaviour. Definitions Definitions reflect the meanings that a person attaches to a person’s behaviour. It refers to the experiences a person has had in their life and also to the principles of right and wrong. All of these definitions will be influenced by religion and moral values and norms and by each person’s own opinions on
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