Learning theories have been used to explain how behaviors are acquired as part of development. They also can be applied to alter existing behaviors. By focusing on behavior and the stimuli associated with it, learning theories have formed the basis of strategies and programs—even therapeutic approaches—to encourage healthy, prosocial behaviors and reduce detrimental and unhealthy behaviors.
For this Discussion, you will explore anti-bullying strategies for social change using the concepts from learning theories. Review Chapter 5 of the Newman and Newman course text and consider learning theories as they relate to bullying.
Review the bullying prevention information provided in the Learning Resources.
Research bullying prevention sites on the Internet and consider other strategies that may support the prevention of bullying. Propose and describe two strategies to stop bullying that can be implemented in school and use concepts from one or more of the learning theories to initiate positive social change in the area of school bullying. The strategies may be designed to influence the behavior of the bully, change the behavior of students who are bullied or witness bullying, or promote a school climate that is more tolerant and respectful of diversity and individual differences.
Be sure to identify the learning theory concepts that you are using as part of each strategy. (Note: Your post does not need to include an all-encompassing program description, but rather can focus on one part of a larger program. Required Readings
Newman, B. M., & Newman, P. R. (2016). Theories of human development (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Psychology Press/Taylor & Francis.
Chapter 5, “Learning Theories”
Ragozzino, K., & O’Brien, M. U. (2009). Social and emotional learning and bullying prevention Links to an external site.. Retrieved from http://www.promotprevent.org/sites/www.promoteprevent.org/files/resources/SELBullying.pdf
Bussey, K., & Bandura, A. (1984). Influence of gender constancy and social power on sex-linked modeling Links to an external site.. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 47(6), 1292–1302.
McLeod, S. (2007). Bobo doll experiment Links to an external site.. Retrieved from http://www.simplypsychology.org/bobo-doll.html
National Bullying Prevention Center Links to an external site.. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.pacer.org/bullying/
Stopbullying.gov. (n.d.). Prevention at school Links to an external site.. Retrieved from http://www.stopbullying.gov/prevention/at-school/index.html
