This article presents the main theoretical conceptualizations of learning by imitation, research pertaining to modeling influence, scriptual references to learning by example, and an evaluation of each as they relate to one set (configuration) of concepts. The following constructs are considered operative in both psychology and theology: (a) People do imitate and model after others; (b) live models are extremely effective in influencing the attitudes and behavior of others; (c) symbolic models are effective in influencing the attitudes and behavior of others; (d) different model characteristics effect the degree to which some people influence others; and (e) covert modeling procedures are effective in changing one's own behavior.
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