Final answer:
Instrumental conditioning through social observation involves learning by watching others and imitating their actions and the outcomes of those actions. Mirror neurons play a key role in this process, which is highlighted by Bandura's social learning theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
Instrumental conditioning, also referred to as operant conditioning, occurs through social observation when an individual learns by watching the actions of others and the consequences that follow. This type of learning extends beyond the direct experience that classical and operant conditioning require. An example of instrumental conditioning through social observation could involve watching a sibling receive praise for completing their chores efficiently, which may lead to another sibling adopting similar behaviors in hopes of receiving praise as well. Similarly, young wolves learn to hunt more effectively by observing and imitating older wolves, and certain monkeys have learned to wash their food by copying other monkeys that do so. In humans, observational learning can occur in various contexts, such as a child learning how to surf by watching their parent and imitating their successful techniques. The cognitive process behind this involves mirror neurons that activate both when performing an action and when observing the same action being performed by others. This process is complex, involving attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation. Albert Bandura's social learning theory emphasizes these cognitive processes and suggests that internal mental states are pivotal in learning, extending beyond mere imitation to encompass a broader understanding gained through observation.