Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory (1986)

Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) posits that individuals are not just passive learners, but they actively construct their understanding of the world through interactions and experiences. Central to this theory are two critical concepts: observational learning and self-efficacy.

1. Observational Learning (or Modeling): This refers to the process by which individuals learn by observing the actions of others and the consequences of those actions. Unlike traditional theories which emphasize direct instruction and reinforcement, SCT suggests that a significant amount of learning occurs by simply watching others. Four processes are involved in observational learning:
- Attention: The individual notices something in the environment.
- Retention: The individual remembers what was noticed.
- Reproduction: The individual produces an action that is a copy of what was noticed.
- Motivation: The environment delivers a consequence that changes the probability the behavior will be emitted again (reinforcements or punishments).

2. Self-efficacy: This is the belief an individual has in their own abilities to complete tasks and achieve goals. Bandura believed that self-efficacy plays a foundational role in motivating behavior because people are more likely to engage in activities they believe they can succeed in and avoid those they believe they will fail. Factors affecting self-efficacy include:
- Mastery Experiences: Success raises self-efficacy, while failure lowers it.
- Vicarious Experiences: Seeing others succeed raises an observer's belief they too can master similar activities.
- Verbal Persuasion: Being told by someone else that you have the skills to succeed can boost self-efficacy.
- Emotional States: Moods, emotional reactions, and physical reactions can influence how one feels about their personal abilities.

In summary, Bandura's SCT underscores the importance of both environmental and cognitive factors in the learning process. People don't just react to external stimuli; they watch, think, believe, and act based on a combination of what they see and how they see themselves.

Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory is indispensable in a coaching context because it emphasizes the power of modeling and belief in influencing behavior. Coaches often serve as role models, and their behaviors are keenly observed by those they coach. By understanding the importance of observational learning, coaches can demonstrate desired behaviors effectively. Moreover, by fostering a strong sense of self-efficacy in their coachees, coaches can enhance motivation, perseverance, and success. Including SCT in a coaching curriculum ensures coaches are equipped to cultivate both observational learning and bolstered self-belief in their clients.