Evaluation of social learning theory as an explanation for AN
Strengths
- Social learning theory is better able than biological explanations or the family systems theory to explain why the prevalence of AN has increased and why it occurs more in females and in certain cultures that promote thinness as a beauty ideal
- There is research evidence that supports the effects of modelling on AN and in this way social learning theory shows practical ways to reduce the prevalence of the disorder in teenage girls through showing celebrities of all sizes in the media and emphasising female strength rather than female thinness
Weaknesses
- Social learning theory cannot explain why eating does not start again when compliments for losing weight stop and negative comments start occurring
- Social learning theory does not explain why only some females develop AN when all are subjected to the same media images of thinness
Link to Approaches:
Social learning theory explains AN through the identification with a role model, observation of the role model, vicarious reinforcement and finally imitation of the behaviour, which shows how social learning theory can be applied to this disorder.