Pratical Applications of Social Cognitive Theory
A relatively new field of psychology, social cognitive theory (SCT), finds ways to shape human behavior in a beneficial manner and understand why people do the things they do. Cognitive theory is used by professionals in many sectors--from health fields to media campaigns. However, SCT has a few limits that future research must overcome to make it more effective.
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Identification
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Albert Bandura formulated the basics of social cognitive theory during the 1960s, but did not formally publish his ideas until his 1986 book "Social Foundations of Thought and Action: A Social Cognitive Theory." At its heart, social cognitive theory believes that humans learn behavior and base their future actions on the observation of other people and media, Danice Stone of University of South Florida reports. However, one can overcome external stimuli with innate belief in oneself.
Types
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Applications of social cognitive theory have been used most widely in the public health sector, but also in general self-help. Doctor's use the self-efficacy ideas of SCT to help patients change undesired behavior using internal controls. Psychologists consider SCT's idea on how schoolchildren learn social behavior and morals as its greatest contribution, Stone reports.
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Effects
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The application of social cognitive theory gives real health benefits, reports "Health Promotion and Aging" by David Haber. Part of SCT believes that people are more willing to believe information from others with similar conditions. Stanford University's arthritis self-help course, taught by those with arthritis, has shown an average of 15 percent to 20 percent reduction in pain in more than 100,000 subjects.
Limitations
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The practical applications of SCT focus on changing one specific area--such as reducing arthritis pain--rather than improving the overall positive outlook by people. People may believe they can start a workout regime, but may not get the training to believe they can control their diet. The belief in one's personal ability does not always produce real benefits if the person also needs a certain skill level, according to Haber.
Potential
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The applications of social cognitive theory look to develop use in even more fields. A study by Karen Glanz in "Health Behavior and Health Education" found that SCT could reduce alcohol abuse by teens by using media events and community standards that showed alcohol in a negative light. The media are using SCT to promote education and the improvement of socioeconomic status in lesser developed nations.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jennie Faber
