An early theory of imitation, one proposed by Miller and Dollard in 1941, suggested that individuals:
A) Form mental images of the behaviors they observe
B) Are reinforced for imitative behavior
C) Encode imitated behaviors verbally i.e., by describing to themselves what they have observed)
D) Find imitation to be an intrinsically reinforcing activity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Miller and Dollard's theory proposed that individuals are reinforced for imitative behavior, meaning they are more likely to imitate behaviors that have resulted in positive reinforcement for others. The theory did not mention forming mental images or encoding behaviors verbally, and did not suggest that imitation is intrinsically reinforcing.

An Early Theory of Imitation, One Proposed by Miller and Dollard