The effect of modeling and vicarious reinforcement upon the subsequent imitation of a socially approved response

This study tested whether modeling and positive vicarious reinforcement produced imitation of a socially approved behavior. Eighty-eight fourth-grade girls were divided into four groups: three experimental and one control. The experimental groups watched a video tape of a peer model drawing. In one condition the model was praised; in the second, no praise was given and a short interval elapsed before the S could model the behavior; in the third, no praise was given and the S could model the behavior immediately. The control group watched a blank screen. Significant modeling effects occurred among those Ss exposed to the tapes (p < .001). Positive vicarious reinforcement, however, did not further facilitate the modeling effect. The data were discussed in light of the practicality and feasibility of using modeling procedures in the schools.