Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

Which of the following is not a key component of Bandura's social cognitive theory?

1. Reciprocal determinism

2. Self-efficacy

3. Collective unconscious

4. Observational learning

The correct answer is: Collective unconscious

The correct answer is indeed the concept of the collective unconscious, as it does not belong to Bandura's social cognitive theory. Bandura's theory is fundamentally grounded in the interactions between personal factors, behavior, and the environment, which he referred to as reciprocal determinism. This component emphasizes that individuals influence and are influenced by their surroundings, underlining a dynamic interplay in personality development. Self-efficacy is another cornerstone of Bandura's framework, referring to an individual's belief in their own ability to succeed in specific situations. This belief plays a crucial role in how goals are approached and challenges are faced, impacting motivation and behavior. Observational learning, or modeling, is also a critical aspect of social cognitive theory, as it highlights the importance of learning through the observation of others. This mechanism explains how behaviors can be acquired without direct experience but through watching others and the consequences they face. In contrast, the concept of the collective unconscious originates from Carl Jung's theories, which involve the shared memories and archetypes among a culture or society, fundamentally differing from Bandura's emphasis on learning through social interaction and personal agency. Thus, the collective unconscious is not a key component of Bandura's social cognitive theory.