Self-efficacy

Definition

Self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. This belief influences how people think, behave, and motivate themselves, as it affects their level of persistence and resilience when faced with challenges. High self-efficacy can lead to greater effort and commitment, while low self-efficacy may result in avoidance of tasks and a lack of motivation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Self-efficacy is rooted in Bandura's social cognitive theory, which emphasizes the role of observational learning and social experience in shaping beliefs.
2. Individuals with high self-efficacy are more likely to take on challenging tasks and persist in the face of setbacks, viewing difficulties as opportunities for growth.
3. Self-efficacy can be developed through mastery experiences, vicarious experiences, social persuasion, and managing physiological states.
4. Teachers and leaders can enhance self-efficacy in others by providing positive feedback and creating supportive environments that foster skill development.
5. Low self-efficacy can lead to anxiety, stress, and a higher likelihood of giving up when faced with challenges or underperforming situations.

Review Questions

• How does self-efficacy influence an individual's approach to managing underperforming staff?
  • Self-efficacy plays a crucial role in how leaders approach managing underperforming staff. Leaders with high self-efficacy believe they can effectively address performance issues and motivate their staff. This confidence allows them to engage with underperforming employees constructively, provide support, and implement strategies that foster improvement. In contrast, leaders with low self-efficacy may avoid difficult conversations or feel overwhelmed by the situation, leading to ineffective management.
• Discuss the impact of high self-efficacy on the performance and motivation of underperforming staff.
  • High self-efficacy in underperforming staff can significantly enhance their motivation and performance. When individuals believe in their abilities, they are more likely to set challenging goals, put forth effort, and persist through obstacles. As they experience small successes, their confidence grows, leading to further improvements in performance. Conversely, if staff members lack self-efficacy, they may disengage from their work or fail to seek help when needed, resulting in continued underperformance.
• Evaluate strategies that leaders can use to boost the self-efficacy of underperforming staff and the potential outcomes of these strategies.
  • Leaders can boost the self-efficacy of underperforming staff through various strategies such as providing constructive feedback, setting achievable goals, and offering mentorship opportunities. By recognizing small successes and celebrating progress, leaders reinforce positive beliefs about capabilities. Additionally, creating a supportive environment where employees feel safe to take risks encourages them to stretch their abilities. These strategies can lead to improved job performance, higher levels of engagement, and a more resilient workforce ready to tackle challenges.

Related terms

Self-esteem: The overall sense of personal value and self-worth that an individual feels, which can influence their confidence in specific situations.

Outcome expectation: The belief that a specific behavior will lead to a certain outcome, which is closely related to self-efficacy.

Motivation: The process that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors, often influenced by an individual's self-efficacy.