The ability to learn is of crucial importance in human life, but understanding this ability has proved to be difficult. There have been many attempts to formulate scientific theories based on both animal experiments and human experience; and these have been applied to education and the treatment of psychological disturbance, with a certain amount of success. Originally published in 1984, this incisive guide to the research and its outcomes provides the background to one of the most debated topics in psychology today. Learning Theory and Behaviour Modification introduces the work of major figures, such as Pavlov and Skinner, which has strongly influenced theories in educational and clinical psychology, and formed the basis of the techniques known as ‘behaviour modification’. As well as giving examples of these techniques the author relates new ideas about the scope and limits of behaviour modification to recent changes in the views of learning theorists. How much can experiments on animals tell us about human psychology?

Professor Bandura presents basic psychological principles governing human behavior within the conceptual framework of social learning, reviewing the recent theoretical and experimental advances in the field and discuting extensive applications of this knowledge to the vital areas of personality development, education, psychopathology and psychotherapy. The numerous investigations contained in the book also illustrate how understanding of major change processes can be advanced by inventive research on socially significant problems. The book is concerned not only with the validity of the principles set forth but also with the conditions under which they can serve as instruments for human advancement. The value issues that arise in the applications of social learning procedures in the achievement of vatious psychological changes are closely examined, special attention being given to the effects of socail practices on man's self-evaluation and self-enchancement.

Social problems in many domains, including health, education, social relationships, and the workplace, have their origins in human behavior. The documented links between behavior and social problems have compelled governments and organizations to prioritize and mobilize efforts to develop effective, evidence-based means to promote adaptive behavior change. In recognition of this impetus, The Handbook of Behavior Change provides comprehensive coverage of contemporary theory, research, and practice on behavior change. It summarizes current evidence-based approaches to behavior change in chapters authored by leading theorists, researchers, and practitioners from multiple disciplines, including psychology, sociology, behavioral science, economics, philosophy, and implementation science. It is the go-to resource for researchers, students, practitioners, and policy makers looking for current knowledge on behavior change and guidance on how to develop effective interventions to change behavior.

This book aims to facilitate the task of reviewing and selecting relevant theories to inform the design of behaviour change interventions and policies. The main goal is to provide on accessible source of potentially useful theories from a range of disciplines beyond those usually considered. It also provides on opportunity to analyse brood issues around the use of theory in the design of behaviour change interventions and examine areas where there is scope for improvement.

Much of the material in this popular text has been updated. The introductory chapters include proactive behavior-management strategies and a comparison of popular approaches to behavior management. The book's extensive coverage of data collection has been expanded to include new material on trend estimation and interpretation. Both traditional behavior modification, and current social learning theory approaches are discussed.Each chapter begins with objectives. Short assessments called "Checkpoints," included on the accompanying electronic file, allow the readers to test their understanding of the material as it is read. Concrete examples, helpful tips, and step-by-step instructions add everyday practicality to the text. This book is ideal for use as a resource for teachers or as an adopted text in basic or advanced behavior-management courses.