Modeling effectiveness as a function of the similarity of the learner to personal characteristics of the model

This investigation was conceptualized as a means of examining some of the personal characteristics of the model that influence the acquisition of imitative responses. Bandura (1968) has suggested that modeling is increased when the model is liked by the observer. Interpersonal attraction literature suggests that one of the major determinants of liking is similarity (Byrne, 1971). It is therefore hypothesized that observers would be more likely to imitate people who are similar to them. The characteristics of similarity investigated in this study were race and sex. On the basis of the extensive research regarding authoritarianism, it was further hypothesized that there would be an inverse relationship between F-scale and modeling of a black model by white observers. Subjects consisted of 115 undergraduate education majors, 95 from Texas A & M University and 20 from Sam Houston State University. Subjects were male and female Caucasians, most of whom indicated a strong intention of teaching either elementary or secondary school upon graduation. Each subject viewed one of four voice-over slide presentations designed to indicate basic principles of classroom behavior modification. Two white, male, preteen students and a teacher were shown in the presentation in typical instances of classroom interaction. The four presentations were identical with the exception of the sex or ethnicity of the teacher (white male, white female, black male, black female). After viewing the presentation, the subjects were required to evaluate it on a five item evaluation scale, respond to a relevant knowledge test, and to the Lee and Warr balanced F-scale (1969). ..