The nature/nurture debate within psychology is concerned with the extent to whic
The nature/nurture debate within psychology is concerned with the extent to which particular aspects of behavior are a product of either inherited (genetic) or acquired (learned) characteristics. This exercise will help you explore that debate by looking at one specific behavior, aggression.
Bandura’s (1977) social learning theory states that aggression is learned from the environment through observation and imitation (nurture). He concludes this, in part, from the results of his famous Bobo doll experiment (Bandura, 1961). Review the Bobo experiment here: Bobo ExperimentLinks to an external site..
Reflect on the following issues:
Where do you stand on the nature/nurture debate? Is aggression a learned behavior? Please provide specific examples to your point of view.
Discuss your thoughts on the experiment and its relevance to the debate. Do you see any potential flaws or underlying factors that may not be reflected in the analysis here?
Suggest at least one implication for society if children do learn predominantly by imitation.
Write a 2–3 page paper (not including the title page and reference page) referencing at least two sources (you may cite the website provided here for the Bobo doll experiment as one of your sources. Refer to the Bobo doll experiment, but do not summarize it.)
Use current APA Style and include a title page and reference page.
See rubric for specific grading criteria.
Due: Sunday, 11:59 p.m. (Pacific time)
Rubric
PSYC_290_OL – Paper/Essay Rubric
PSYC_290_OL – Paper/Essay Rubric
CriteriaRatingsPts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeContent
35 to >27.65ptsMeets Expectations
The writer clearly and effectively responds to the assignment with details and specific examples. Content fully addresses all aspects of the assignment. Main ideas are clear and are well supported by detailed and accurate information. All opinions are thoroughly supported.
27.65 to >20.65 ptsApproaches Expectations
The response to the assignment is generally adequate, but may not be thorough. May be lacking some details and explanations. Main ideas are clear but are not well supported by detailed information. Content addresses or partially addresses most aspects of the assignment. Most opinions are supported in some way.
20.65 to >0ptsNot Meeting Expectations
The writer does not respond to the assignment or the response is far outside the parameters of the assignment. The topic and main ideas are not clear.
35pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeOrganization
20 to >15.81ptsMeets Expectations
The introduction is inviting, states the main topic, and provides an overview of the paper. Information is relevant and presented in a logical order. The conclusion is strong. The writer clearly states his or her thoughts on the subject.
15.81 to >11.81 ptsApproaches Expectations
The introduction states the main topic and provides an overview of the paper. A conclusion is included. The writer may vaguely state his or her thoughts on the subject.
11.81 to >0ptsNot Meeting Expectations
There is no clear introduction, structure, or conclusion. There is no summary of the writer’s point of view.
20pts
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeMechanics and APA Style
20 to >15.81ptsMeets Expectations
The assignment consistently follows current APA Style and is free from errors in formatting, citation, and references. No grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors. All sources are cited and referenced correctly.
15.81 to >11.81 ptsApproaches Expectations
The assignment consistently follows current APA Style with only isolated and inconsistent mistakes and/or has a few grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors. Most sources are cited and referenced correctly.
11.81 to >0ptsNot Meeting Expectations
The assignment does not follow current APA Style and/or has many grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors. Many sources are cited and referenced incorrectly, or citations and references are missing.
20pts
Total Points: 75
Requirements: 2-3 pages