Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Observational learning and modeling play a significant role in personality development by enabling individuals to acquire new behaviors and social skills through the observation of others. This concept, introduced by Albert Bandura, emphasizes that people can learn by watching the actions of role models and the consequences of those actions.

When individuals observe someone performing a behavior and notice the positive or negative outcomes associated with it, they are likely to imitate that behavior themselves. This process helps shape their personality traits, social behaviors, and coping strategies. For instance, children often learn how to interact with peers and adults by watching their parents, teachers, or media figures, integrating those observed behaviors into their own actions and developing aspects of their personality.

The other options do not align with the established understanding of observational learning. For instance, hindering personality growth by discouraging imitation contradicts the premise that modeling facilitates learning through imitation. Focusing exclusively on internal thought processes neglects the external influences on behavior that are central to observational learning. Lastly, dismissing the relevance of observational learning in personality development undermines the empirical research that highlights the impact of social environments on personal growth. Thus, the statement about observational learning enabling behavior based on observed actions is accurate and reflects a fundamental aspect of personality development.