Yes, attitudes are learnt. In general, they are learned through one’s own experiences and interaction with others. While some research shows an inborn aspect, genetic factors influence attitudes only indirectly along with learning. Thus, most social psychologists focus on the conditions leading to the learning of attitudes.

Learning attitudes by association: Students often develop a liking for a subject because of the teacher. The positive qualities in the teacher get linked to the subject, resulting in a positive attitude towards the subject through this positive association.

Learning attitudes through modelling (observing others): We learn attitudes by observing others being rewarded or punished for expressing thoughts or behaviour towards an attitude object. For example, children form a respectful attitude towards elders by observing their parents showing respect and being appreciated.

Learning through exposure to information: Many attitudes are learned in a social context without the physical presence of others. Media provides information forming positive and negative attitudes. Reading biographies of self-actualised persons can develop a positive attitude towards hard work.

Learning attitudes through group or cultural norms: We learn attitudes through the unwritten rules (norms) of our group or culture. Over time, these norms become part of our social cognition as attitudes. For example, offering sweets in a place of worship is a normative behaviour individuals learn and develop a positive attitude towards.