Honor Killing and the Cycle of Social Influence: A Study of the Pakistani Bride through Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory

Authors

• Mohamad Abou Adel, United Arab Emirates UniversityFollow
• Muhammad Asif, Alasala Colleges
• Hanene Lahiani, Al Ain University
• Mohammad I. Alhourani, Al Ain University
• Ahmad M. Al Mahamed, Abu Dhabi University

DOI

https://doi.org/10.58256/pgj52m46

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-1-2025

Abstract

This research employs Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory to analyze honor-related violence as presented by Bapsi Sidhwa in her novel The Pakistani Bride. Honor killings are often committed and justified under the guise of preserving the family's honor. This study aims to explore how such violence is modeled, reinforced, and sustained through social observation, cultural norms, and intergenerational transmission. The application of Social Learning Theory demonstrates that honor-related violence is not genetically transferred, but it is learned and reinforced by societal rewards and punishments. The novel portrays male, well-known figures who engage in violent behavior as role models for future generations, while women are subjected to the resulting cycle of abuse.

Recommended Citation

Abou Adel, Mohamad; Asif, Muhammad; Lahiani, Hanene; Alhourani, Mohammad I.; and Mahamed, Ahmad M. Al, "Honor Killing and the Cycle of Social Influence: A Study of the Pakistani Bride through Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory" (2025). CoHSS Faculty Work. 43.
https://scholarworks.uaeu.ac.ae/cohss_facwork/43