Final answer:
The assertion that Albert Bandura transitioned from being a purely behavioristic psychologist to a cognitive psychologist is false. Bandura developed the social learning theory, incorporating both behavioral and cognitive principles, and conducted research on observational learning and self-efficacy, which are key components of his social-cognitive theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that Albert Bandura started out as a behavioristic psychologist with his Bobo Doll study and eventually became a cognitive psychologist by studying self-efficacy is false. Bandura is best known for his work in social learning theory, which incorporates both behavioral and cognitive elements. His famous Bobo doll experiment illustrated the concept of observational learning, where children imitated aggressive behaviors displayed by adults towards an inflatable doll. This study highlighted the importance of modeling in learning and that behaviors can be acquired through observation, not just through direct reinforcement.
Later in his career, Bandura explored the concept of self-efficacy, which relates to an individual's belief in their own ability to succeed in specific situations. This concept is foundational to his social-cognitive theory, which also involves ideas of reciprocal determinism and cognitive processes. Thus, Bandura shifted from a strictly behavioristic view to one that integrated cognition, maintaining a consistent focus on how cognitive and environmental factors interact to influence learning and behavior.