Imitation learning

Simulation learning (“ observational learning ”, “ learning through observation ”, “ vicar learning ” or “ pattern learning ”) is a psychotherapeutic method based on the theory of social learning by Albert Bandura . This method is used in cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy ; it consists in the fact that the client is invited to observe and imitate the desired patterns (models) of behavior (for example, the behavior of the therapist or assistant therapist). To reinforce desired behaviors, a “ token economy ” system and a technique called the term “prompting” are used , that is, support and encouragement from the therapist who sets an example. As the desired behaviors are fixed, reinforcement by the therapist gradually decreases. This technique is designated by the term "fading" ( English fading ) ^[1] .

The imitation learning method, in particular, is used to treat obsessive fears: the therapist in the presence of the client does what the client is afraid to do himself.

In the process of therapy, not only a “living model” (a real person) can be used, but also a “symbolic model”, which can be the hero of a book or an image created by the imagination of the client himself. ^[2] Films and documentary videos showing desirable behaviors are also used ^[1] . It is important that the client not only observes the desired types of behavior on the screen, but also sees that in the film these types of behavior lead to the desired results for the hero of the film ( positive reinforcement ) ^[3] . It should be noted that the effectiveness of this technique increases if there is a similarity between the model and the observer: the higher the similarity, the more likely that the observer will want to imitate the model and that he will be able to do it ^[2] . One form of learning by model is self-modeling. This technique consists in the fact that the therapist makes a video of successful moments of the client’s behavior, and then demonstrates this video to the client ^[2] .