Behavioral and Social Cognitive Approaches to Forming Habits
Duke Stevens
PSY 250
November 2, 2015
Tyler Maxey

Behavioral and Social Cognitive Approaches to Forming Habits
Habits as defined by Merriam-Webster's Dictionary as a settled tendency or usual manner of behavior or a behavior pattern acquired by frequent repetition or physiologic exposure that shows itself in regularity or increased facility of performance. In this paper, I will analyze one of my habits, how, why, and where it was developed. Also, I will discuss the chances of continuing the habit, and attempts to break the habit. Using behavioral personality theory and components of social/cognitive theory, this paper will explain why I have this habit and why the habit was formed. I will also develop a plan applying operant conditioning to change my habit and discuss which theory best explains my personality, behavioral or social/cognitive theory.
Social Cognitive Theory The social cognitive theory explains that behavior is learned by watching others do things, using the school of thought that since others are doing this behavior, one should also do this behavior to be like their peers, learning that behavior by witnessing the actual act. One example of this would be a sister and brother are playing with a new toy that requires a certain pattern of movement like a Slip N' Slide. The first sibling runs and slides down the Slip N' Slide on their stomach. The 2nd sibling observes the act, not wanting to be out done by sibling #1, and then carries out the act themselves. Social cognitive theory can be seen in advertising campaigns and peer pressure situations. It is also useful in the treatment of psychological disorders including phobias ("Wikipedia the Free Encyclopedia", 2014).
Behavioral Theory
The behavioral theory, as about my habit, suggests habits are formed (or broken) with the negative and