Final answer:
The statement that Bandura and Walters claimed direct reinforcement and observational learning contribute to self-discipline and achievement motivation is true. Bandura's social learning theory incorporates both observational learning and the effects of direct reinforcement in shaping behavior and motivational factors such as self-efficacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bandura and Walters claimed that direct reinforcement and observational learning work together in shaping what we might call self-discipline and a high achievement motivation. This statement is true. Albert Bandura's social learning theory posits that people learn through observing others' behavior, attitudes, and the outcomes of those behaviors, which is known as observational learning. Bandura's theory emphasizes the importance of cognitive processes in learning and merges these with the behavioral framework provided by reinforcement principles.
Bandura stated that learning can happen without direct reinforcement, which suggests that internal mental states play a crucial role. This contradicts the belief that reinforcement must always be direct, as proposed by earlier behaviorists. In Bandura's view, when we observe others being rewarded or punished, we can learn what behavior to emulate or avoid - a process that integrates both direct reinforcement and observational learning. These learning processes are ultimately intertwined with the development of self-discipline and motivation for high achievement.
Additionally, Bandura introduced concepts like reciprocal determinism, where behavior, cognitive processes, and context influence each other, and self-efficacy, the level of confidence in one's own abilities, both of which are critical to understanding how observational learning affects behavior and personality development.