Social Psychological Explanations

Social Psychological Explanations

Social Learning Theory (SLT):

  • Modelling and imitation play significant roles in the development of addictive behaviours.
  • Children are more likely to behave in certain ways if they observe significant others, such as parents or peer groups, engaging in these behaviours.
  • Bandura argued the learning process involves attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation.
  • The Social Learning Theory highlights the role of vicarious reinforcement, where a person is more likely to copy a behaviour if they observe it being rewarded.
  • According to the SLT, people learn not only through their own experiences but also by observing others and the outcomes of those behaviours.

Peer Influences:

  • Peer influences play a crucial role in shaping an individual’s addictive behaviours due to the desire for social acceptance and the avoidance of rejection.
  • Adolescents are more susceptible to peer influences due to large amounts of time spent in social environments and the strong desire to fit in.
  • Peer pressure can lead individuals to engage in risk-taking behaviours such as substance misuse or gambling which can develop into addiction.
  • Exposure to peers with such behaviours can also normalise engagement in addictive behaviours, reducing perceived risks and consequences.

Environmental Factors:

  • The environment plays a significant part in shaping an individual’s addictive behaviours through factors like availability and accessibility.
  • For example, living in areas with a higher density of alcohol outlets is associated with greater alcohol consumption.
  • In a similar vein, those living in low-income neighbourhoods are more likely to smoke due to higher stress levels and the availability of cheap tobacco.
  • Media portrayal of addictive behaviours can influence perceptions and attitudes, making such behaviours look attractive, glamorous, or harmless.

Cultural Influences:

  • Cultural norms greatly shape the perception of addictive behaviours.
  • In cultures that accept substance use, such as alcohol consumption, individuals are more likely to develop addictive behaviours.
  • Conversely, individuals from cultures where such behaviours are frowned upon or prohibited are less likely to develop these habits.
  • Ritualised use of substances in some cultures may also lead to dependency issues.

Remember these key points when discussing the social psychological explanations of addictive behaviours, and use them as a basis for more detailed exploration and analysis.