What is the process of learning through observing the consequences of others' actions called?

The process of learning through observing the consequences of others' actions is best described as vicarious reinforcement. This concept is grounded in social learning theory, which posits that individuals can learn not only through direct experience but also by observing the experiences of others. When someone witnesses another person being rewarded for a behavior, they may be more likely to engage in that behavior themselves, anticipating that they too will receive similar reinforcement. This form of learning is particularly powerful because it allows individuals to adapt their behavior without having to undergo the same consequences personally.

Modeling, while closely related, refers specifically to the act of imitating the behaviors of others, rather than focusing directly on the consequences. Conversely, operant conditioning emphasizes the idea that behaviors are shaped by the direct consequences that follow them, which is not about observing others’ consequences. Cognitive learning involves a broader understanding of knowledge acquisition through internal processes like thinking and memory, not primarily through observation. Therefore, vicarious reinforcement accurately captures the essence of learning through the observation of others' outcomes.