Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which theoretical approach to learning posits that individuals learn from personal experiences and observing others?

1. Social cognitive theory (SCT)

2. Health belief model (HBM)

3. Theory of planned behavior (TPB)

4. Transtheoretical model (TTM)

The correct answer is: Social cognitive theory (SCT)

The correct answer emphasizes the concept of observational learning and the significance of personal experience in the learning process. Social cognitive theory (SCT), developed by Albert Bandura, posits that people learn not only through their own experiences but also by observing the actions of others and the outcomes of those actions. This learning occurs in a social context and highlights the interplay between individual factors, behavior, and the environment. In SCT, the role of self-efficacy, or the belief in one's ability to succeed in specific situations, plays a critical role in influencing behavior changes. The theory also incorporates the importance of vicarious reinforcement, where individuals witness the consequences of others’ actions and modify their behavior accordingly. This approach helps explain how people can learn new skills, adopt new behaviors, or change health-related habits by observing and reflecting on others and their experiences within a social framework. The other theoretical approaches do not primarily focus on the combination of personal experience and observation as learning methods. The health belief model is centered around individuals' perceptions of health risks and the benefits of taking preventive actions. The theory of planned behavior emphasizes the intention to act, based on attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. The transtheoretical model outlines stages of change regarding health behavior but