What does observational learning emphasize in relation to reinforcement and punishment?

Observational learning emphasizes the idea that individuals can acquire new behaviors by watching others and the consequences those behaviors incur. When individuals observe someone else receiving rewards for their actions, they are likely to model that behavior themselves, anticipating similar rewards. This process, known as vicarious reinforcement, highlights how external cues influence learning.

The focus on rewards indicates that the observer learns not just through direct experience but by witnessing how behaviors are reinforced in others, making it a powerful component of social learning. This stands in contrast to other options that fail to capture the essence of observational learning, such as ignoring the consequences faced by others, only attending to personal experiences, or witnessing harsh penalties, which do not encompass the full scope of how observing rewards can influence behavior.