Tammy has trouble getting dates, so she begins to observe how other students attract boys. The four girls below have all had a date within the last week. Without knowing anything about Tammy, but using criteria proposed by social cognitive theorists, choose the girl whom Tammy is most likely to model.
A) Amanda has a steady boyfriend, but most of her classmates don't like her.
B) Belinda has never had a date.
C) Clara enjoys playing traditionally "masculine" sports such as football and ice hockey with the boys.
D) Dorinda is popular and feminine.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to social cognitive theory, individuals are more likely to model the behavior of people who are seen as competent, powerful, popular, and/or similar to themselves. Dorinda, who is popular and feminine, fits these criteria and is therefore the most likely choice for Tammy to model. Amanda may have a steady boyfriend but if most of her classmates don't like her, she may not be seen as competent or powerful. Belinda has never had a date, so she may not be seen as a good role model for dating behavior. Clara plays traditionally "masculine" sports which may not be similar to Tammy's interests, making her a less likely model.

Tammy Has Trouble Getting Dates, So She Begins to Observe