Which theory explains how behaviors are learned through societal attitudes?

Social learning theory is the correct answer because it emphasizes that behaviors are learned through interactions with others and by observing the actions and consequences of those actions in a social context. This theory, developed by Albert Bandura, highlights the importance of imitation, modeling, and reinforcement in the learning process. It suggests that people can learn new behaviors not only through direct experience but also through observing others, particularly role models in their environment. Societal attitudes, norms, and values play a crucial role in shaping these observations and subsequent behaviors, making social learning theory highly relevant in understanding how individuals adopt behaviors that are influenced by the social context around them.

The other theories listed do not focus on the social aspect of learning behaviors. Cognitive development theory, for example, deals primarily with the internal cognitive processes that occur as children develop, while behaviorist theory focuses on observable behavior change in response to environmental stimuli rather than incorporating social context. Attachment theory centers on the significance of relationships in early development rather than on the acquisition of specific behaviors influenced by societal norms and attitudes.