AQA Approaches in Psychology Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

Imitation in social learning theory is driven by cognitive mediation between observing and performing. The model emphasizes identifying with the person being observed, watching the consequences of their behavior (which creates vicarious reinforcement or punishment), and the internal processes that translate observation into action. Identifying with a model makes the observer more likely to imitate, because they see themselves in that person and value what they do. When a model’s behavior is followed by positive reinforcement, others are extra motivated to copy it through vicarious reinforcement. Internal mediational processes—like attention, retention, motor reproduction, and motivation—are the mental steps that bridge watching and doing. The statement about individuals with high self-esteem isn’t part of the standard factors Bandura lists as affecting imitation; self-esteem isn’t a primary mediator in the model. So it isn’t considered a listed factor influencing imitation, making it the option that does not fit.