Which theory highlights the influence of social learning on personality development?

Bandura's Social Learning Theory emphasizes the significant role social learning plays in personality development. This theory posits that individuals learn behaviors, attitudes, and emotional responses through observing others—especially role models—and by imitating their actions. This means that personality is not developed solely through innate traits or psychological processes, but also through social interactions and experiences.

Central to this theory is the concept of observational learning, which suggests that much of what we learn in life comes from watching the behaviors of others and the subsequent rewards or punishments they receive. Bandura introduced the idea of reciprocal determinism, which illustrates that personal factors, environmental influences, and behavior all interact and contribute to the development of an individual's personality.

In contrast, the other theories mentioned do not focus primarily on social learning. Cognitive Behavioral Theory centers on the role of thoughts and behavior but does not primarily address social influences. Trait Theory concentrates on the identification and measurement of individual personality traits, whereas Psychoanalytic Theory, founded by Freud, delves into the unconscious mind and early childhood experiences rather than social learning dynamics. Thus, Bandura's Social Learning Theory distinctly foregrounds the impact of social interaction and observation in shaping personality, making it the correct choice.