Question

Tim’s family is poor and lives in an economically depressed neighborhood. Tim observes a neighbor’s older son, who went to college, moved away, got a good job, and now drives a flashy sports car when he visits his parents. Tim studies very hard in school and vows to follow this individual’s example so he can make a better life for himself. Which of the following statements about this example is NOT true?

1) Tim’s goals involve approach-avoidance conflict.
2) Tim is employing vicarious learning.
3) Tim is modeling the behavior of his neighbor’s son.
4) All of these statements are true.
5) Tim’s observations have activated an approach motive.

Answer 1

The statement 'Tim’s goals involve approach-avoidance conflict' is not true in this scenario, as his goal has only positive aspects to him. The concepts of vicarious learning, modeling behavior, and approach motive are all correctly applied.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that is NOT true about the given example is 'Tim’s goals involve approach-avoidance conflict.' An approach-avoidance conflict is a situation where an individual is torn between a goal that has both appealing and unappealing aspects. In Tim's case, his goal—to follow his neighbor's path and improve his life—is entirely appealing to him, and there are no stated negative aspects.

Vicarious learning involves learning by observing the actions of others and the consequences of those actions. This is true for Tim as he learns from his neighbor’s son’s experience. Modeling behavior is about imitating the actions of others, which Tim is aiming to do. Lastly, an approach motive involves being driven towards a positive or desirable goal, which is true in Tim's case as he wants a better life.

Learn more about Approach-Avoidance Conflict