Observational learning requires exposure to modeling cues, acquisition of the ability to reproduce what is seen or heard, and acceptance of the model's behavior as a guide for one's own actions, as imitation, counter-imitation, disinhibition, or inhibition. In this overview paper, the author considers a large body of research, especially that…

Analyzed the differences between heroes, other characters, and themes from the Roy Rogers television show of the 1950s, and the Brave Starr show of the 1980s. Found the modern hero more prosocial, cooperative, fearful, and self-critical. The modern villain was more hostile, negative, and successful against the hero. Discusses implications for…

The hypothesis that physical aggression in the family affects children's adjustment through both observational learning/modeling and through its impact on parenting was tested, via LISREL, using data from a sample of Canadian children (N=11,221). Results showed observational learning and disrupted parenting provide reasonable explanations of…

The psychoanalytic theory of identification and the cognitive-developmental and social-learning theories of imitation are briefly described. Pertinent empirical research in the following areas is summarized and critically evaluated: imitation in infants, observational learning, clinical use of modeling, and the relation of imitation to aggression,…

Approximately 1,500 published and unpublished books and articles are listed in this bibliography on the broad area of observational learning in children which includes modeling, imitation, and vicarious conditioning. The majority of sources listed are dated from the 1960's and 1970's although some date as far back as the 1930's. Research in such…