Social learning theory, developed by psychologist Albert Bandura, posits that people learn new behaviors through observation and imitation of others. This theory emphasizes the role of social interactions and modeling in the learning process, suggesting that individuals can acquire new skills, attitudes, and behaviors by observing others and the consequences of their actions. Social learning theory also highlights the importance of reinforcement and punishment in shaping behavior, as individuals are more likely to imitate behaviors that are rewarded and less likely to imitate behaviors that are punished. Overall, social learning theory emphasizes the social context in which learning occurs and the influence of others on individual behavior.