Which theory explains community member behaviors through observations and modeling?

Social Learning Theory is the correct choice because it focuses on how individuals learn behaviors through the observation of others, often referred to as modeling. Proposed by Albert Bandura, this theory emphasizes that people can acquire new behaviors and skills by watching others perform them and then imitating those actions. The process involves attention to a model's demonstration, retention of the observed behavior, reproduction of the behavior, and motivation to perform the behavior.

In the context of community dynamics, Social Learning Theory explains how community members may adopt certain behaviors, norms, or practices by observing other community members, particularly those they admire or consider role models. This is crucial for understanding how social norms and cultural practices are transmitted within communities.

The other theories do not specifically address the role of observation and modeling in behavior acquisition in the same way. Efficacy Theory, while relevant to motivation and confidence in personal capabilities, doesn't focus on modeling as a mechanism of behavior change. Social Exchange Theory involves the idea of decision-making based on perceived costs and benefits in relationships and interactions, rather than observational learning. Behaviorism primarily focuses on observable behaviors and conditioning through reinforcement and punishment, but it does not inherently include the social aspect of learning through observation and modeling that is central to Social Learning Theory.