A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Which method was employed by Bandura et al (1961) during their experiment?

1. Field study

2. Case study

3. Laboratory experiment

4. Survey method

The correct answer is: Laboratory experiment

Bandura et al. (1961) conducted a laboratory experiment as part of their famous research on observational learning, which is often encapsulated in their study involving children and a Bobo doll. A laboratory experiment allows researchers to control variables and create a structured environment, facilitating the manipulation of the independent variable—in this case, the exposure to aggressive or non-aggressive behavior modeled by adults. In this study, children were exposed to different types of adult behavior before being observed in a playroom. The controlled setting was vital for assessing the effects of the modeled behaviors on children's subsequent actions toward the Bobo doll. By conducting the experiment in a lab, Bandura could ensure that external factors were minimized, thereby enhancing the reliability of the observations made regarding the imitation of behavior. This foundational approach in psychology highlighted the importance of controlled observation and experimentation in understanding social learning processes. The strength of using a laboratory experiment stems from the ability to replicate the study, which is crucial for validating findings within the field.