Final answer:
Anthony's internal phrases of praise and pride when receiving an A on a test exemplify the concept of self-reinforcement in social learning theory, emphasizing the role of self-efficacy in motivating behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Anthony gets a test paper back on which he earned an A, the phrases like "atta boy" and "good going" that pop into his head, as well as the sense of pride he feels in his accomplishments, illustrate the social learning concept of self-reinforcement.
Self-reinforcement is when we reward ourselves for performing well, and it is based on our beliefs about our capabilities, known as self-efficacy. Albert Bandura's theory emphasizes that our sense of self-efficacy motivates our behavior. If we believe strongly in our ability to achieve, this fuels our willingness to take on challenges and persist despite setbacks. This concept is also related to the human need for achievement, a social motive described by researchers like Henry Murray that drives accomplishment. Parents and teachers can foster self-reinforcement by praising children's efforts and achievements, which contributes to a positive self-concept and can increase a child's confidence and willingness to engage in new tasks.
In this case, Anthony's internal praise serves as self-reinforcement, boosting his self-esteem and motivation, and this concept is fundamental to social learning theories which consider the role of cognitive and personal factors in behavioral development.