What is Reciprocal Determinism?

Reciprocal determinism is a central concept of Bandura’s social learning theory, which states that a person’s behaviour is influenced and shaped by the environment and that an individual’s behaviour can influence and shape the environment in which they are in. This theory posits the idea of a bidirectional relationship between an individual and the environment where one action will impact both in differing ways. 

One of the core parts of this theory is that it focuses on the way in which these relationships support the learning of new knowledge, skills and behaviours. This is seen through the processes of positive and negative reinforcement, somewhat similar to the theories linked to behaviourism. If the individual receives a positive response from the use of a specific knowledge, skill or behaviour from the environment, then this is likely to be repeated. This is the same effect if the individual receives a negative response. The knowledge, skill or behaviour is less likely to be repeated. 

Within the theory of Reciprocal Determinism or as it is also sometimes referred to as ‘Triadic Reciprocal Causation, ’ Bandura refers to the relationship between an individual and the environment being split into three interconnected sections, each impacting on and being impacted by one another. The three sets of factors are personal, environmental, and behavioural. 

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Personal or cognition: 

This factor within the theory focuses on an individual’s own personal expectations, beliefs, and personality characteristics, as well as their cognitive thoughts, such as likes and dislikes. This section of the theory describes how an individual might make a choice or display a specific behaviour based on these characteristics, especially if they have been rewarded in the past.

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Environmental: 

This factor within the theory focuses on and refers to both the physical and social environment in which the behaviour occurs. A person’s physical and social environment influences the intensity and frequency of the behaviour, just as the behaviour itself can have an impact on the environment. An example of how the environment can impact the individual is through what people are present within the environment and the attitudes, beliefs, and ideas these people hold.

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Behavioural: 

This factor within the theory focuses on and refers to anything the individual does that may be rewarded or punished. A person’s behaviour is influenced by cognitive processes and environmental factors. Each section is interconnected and cannot function effectively without the others.