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.