Central to social cognitive learning theory is the idea that: A. explicit reinforcement is necessary for children to learn. B. children can only learn through active exploration of their world. C. children can only learn through direct social interaction with more skilled peers. D. children can learn by watching others be rewarded or punished for their actions, rather than having to experience the reward or punishment directly themselves.

• children can learn by watching others be rewarded or punished for their actions, rather than having to experience the reward or punishment directly themselves.

Explanation:

According to social learning theory of learning process and social behavior, new behaviors can be acquired through observing and imitating others. Although reinforcement plays a key role in learning, it is clear that the best method for children to learn new behaviors by observing and imitating. Therefore, a child can learn a new behavior when they observe someone else do the same and get rewarded.