"Learning would be extremely laborious, not to mention dangerous, if people had to rely solely on the effects of their own actions to inform them what to do. Fortunately, most human behaviors are learned by observation through modeling: by observing others, one gets an idea of ​​how the new behaviors are performed, and on later occasions, this coded information serves as a guide for the "action." -Albert Bandura, Social Learning Theory, 1977. Criminal behavior can be explained by many theories. Social learning theory is a theory that can be used to explain the criminal behavior expressed by Bandura (Siegel, 2011). With reference to Mary's case study, social learning theory will be used. This essay will reflect on Mary's case and the issues surrounding her contribution to her criminal activities and behavior. This essay will first summarize social learning theory, then examine Mary's life and explain how she became caught up in criminal behavior, examining the family and symbolic model, as well as the peer model. Additionally, this essay will describe how Mary initiated and sustained her criminal behavior. This essay will verify Mary's motivation as well as theories related to the continuation of her behavior. Finally, this essay will demonstrate that social learning theory is applicable to Mary, due to her obvious behavior being antisocial starting at the age of 14. Albert Bandura's social learning theory can be used to understand the factors associated with criminal behavior (Akers, 2009). There are four major concepts in social learning theory, including indirect or direct differential association with other individuals through nonverbal or verbal communication, definitions...... middle of paper . ..... forms of peers and family. Mary learned through observation and vicarious learning from her father, stepfather, mother, and peers. This is how Mary's pattern of behavior began and was sustained. Mary was coerced by her peers into committing her latest offense, which partly reflects her external locus of control. Mary tried to excuse and neutralize his behavior and dehumanize his victim, exclaiming that it was her fault that he tried to get her back and that it was also not her who stabbed the victim . Mary's behavior was coerced by her co-offender, as Mary only committed the crime because of her drug addiction. Marie will not change for the moment; she is looking forward to a short stay in prison. Mary would be an ideal candidate for cognitive behavioral therapy given that she is young and this will help her change her habits, which in turn could help her manage her delinquent behavior..