Final answer:
Johnny is engaging in observational learning, a process where he watches and imitates his father's actions to learn how to shave. This method of learning is crucial for acquiring new skills without direct experience, understanding accepted behaviors, and involves steps including attention and motivation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Johnny has learned by watching and imitating his father's shaving. This type of learning is known as observational learning. It is a process where an individual learns by observing others and then imitating or modeling their actions. Unlike classical and operant conditioning, which require direct experience, observational learning allows an individual to learn from the experiences of others. For example, children often learn how to tie their shoes by observing their parents, or learn how to perform math problems by mimicking their teachers solving equations on the board. Furthermore, the observation of others can extend the range of learning by enabling one to imitate successful actions and avoid unsuccessful ones, as highlighted by the concept of mirror neurons that are thought to be involved in this learning process.
According to psychologist Albert Bandura, observational learning involves several steps for successful modeling: attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation. This type of learning is also critical for understanding what behaviors are acceptable and which are not within a culture, as it allows individuals to see behaviors that are reinforced or punished, and adjust their own actions accordingly.