Final answer:
Reciprocal determinism, proposed by Albert Bandura, is the theory suggesting that behavior, cognitive processes, and situational context influence one another, leading to behaviors that may not be under volitional control.
Step-by-step explanation:
The theory that extends the application of context to areas where the behavior may not be under volitional control is known as reciprocal determinism, as proposed by Albert Bandura. This theory suggests that our behavior, cognitive processes, and situational context all influence each other. In other words, not only do our intentional actions shape our environment, but our environment and our cognitive processes (such as our thoughts, beliefs, and expectations) also shape our behavior. This interplay can lead to behaviors that may appear out of our voluntary control because they arise from the complex interactions of these multiple factors.
Reciprocal determinism integrates the importance of both external and internal determinants of behavior. It goes beyond simple cause-and-effect logic by acknowledging the dynamic and reciprocal interplay between the individual and their environment. For example, in a teaching situation, a student's behavior is influenced by their past experiences, personal beliefs, and the reward structure present in the educational setting. Teachers who understand this can better structure the learning environment to facilitate positive student behaviors.
This theory is notably important in social-cognitive theory and is a key aspect of understanding personality development from a psychological perspective. It supports the idea that even when individuals are not fully aware of the influences at play, or do not have volitional control over their behaviors, various factors interact to dictate the patterns of behavior observed.