Introduction
The concept of a worldview refers to how a person interprets the world around him or her, including other people, events, behaviors, and many other aspects of life. On a larger scale, not only a person but also communities and societies can have a certain worldview, which can be impacted by their social and cultural backgrounds (Castorina, 2020). Considering the worldview is critical to studying developmental theories as one’s worldview is a conceptual framework and a key to understanding development. Since the worldview integrates identity, morality, meaning, and destiny, it should be involved in learning the process of one’s progress based on developmental theories. Accordingly, worldview is closely connected to how people think and behave, which is important to consider while analyzing their concerns and applying developmental theories.
Bandura’s Social Learning Theory
For Bandura, the author of the social learning theory, individuals are neither autonomous systems nor mere mechanical transmitters that imitate the influences of their surroundings. Instead, they have superior abilities that allow them to predict the occurrence of events and create a means of exercising control over what affects their daily lives. Bandura notes that the majority of the behaviors people exhibit are acquired through an example: by observing what others are doing and then repeating their actions (Akpan & Kennedy, 2020). This emphasis on learning through observation or example rather than direct reinforcement is the most characteristic feature of Bandura’s theory. From the author’s point, people are not controlled by intrapsychic forces and do not just react to the environment. The reasons for human functioning should be understood in terms of the continuous interaction of behaviors, cognition, and environment (Akpan & Kennedy, 2020). In other words, human functioning is seen as a product of the combination of others’ behaviors, personality factors, and the influence of the environment.
My Worldview and Social Learning Theory
My worldview is based on the belief that people can and should learn continuously, which includes not only traditional education but also personal growth, relationship building, and communication skills. In my opinion, a person develops his or her interpretations and practices of morality, identity, and meaning throughout life, mainly through role modeling and personal contacts. From the Christian perspective, I agree with Cashion et al. (2019), who state that Jesus is the key role model to learn from. In addition, the Bible contains a variety of other examples that teach how to behave, such as the Good Samaritan or His disciples. My worldview seems to be based on but extends the theory of social learning. For example, I believe that people are more likely to learn from those to whom they are connected emotionally. It can be parents, friends, teachers, and counselors – people, who are trusted, open to communicating, and supportive. Another way my worldview is compatible with the chosen theory is the importance of reflective cognitive thinking. While children often learn unconsciously, adolescents and adults use reflection to analyze the potential impact of new behavioral patterns and decide on their further selective imitation.
Conclusion
To conclude, I have discovered that my worldview integrates the concepts of the social learning theory by Bandura. In the future coursework, I can use the lessons learned from this assignment for an in-depth self-reflection and the formulation of my personal and professional development plans, focusing on those from whom I can learn. In addition, I can act as a role model for my peers and clients in my social work practice.
References
Akpan, B., & Kennedy, T. J. (2020). Science education in theory and practice: An introductory guide to learning theory. Cham: Springer Nature.
Cashion, V., Shriner, B., Shriner, M., & Mossler, R. A. (2019). Lifespan 360: Christian perspectives on human development (2nd ed.). Kendall Hunt Publishing Co.
Castorina, J. A. (2020). The importance of worldviews for developmental psychology. Human Arenas, 1-19.