Self-efficacy

Definition

Self-efficacy is the belief in one's own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. This concept plays a crucial role in how individuals approach challenges, set goals, and ultimately achieve success, as it influences motivation, resilience, and the effort put into tasks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Self-efficacy is influenced by past experiences, social modeling (observing others), and verbal persuasion (encouragement from others).
2. Individuals with high self-efficacy are more likely to take on challenging tasks and persist in the face of setbacks.
3. Low self-efficacy can lead to avoidance of difficult tasks, decreased effort, and a higher likelihood of giving up.
4. Self-efficacy affects not just individual performance but also how people approach social interactions and their overall mental health.
5. Albert Bandura introduced the concept of self-efficacy as part of his social cognitive theory, emphasizing its role in learning and behavior change.

Review Questions

• How does self-efficacy influence an individual's approach to challenging tasks?
  • Self-efficacy significantly influences how individuals approach challenging tasks by determining their level of confidence in their abilities. Those with high self-efficacy are more likely to embrace challenges, view them as opportunities for growth, and put forth persistent effort. Conversely, individuals with low self-efficacy may shy away from challenges or give up quickly when faced with difficulties, impacting their overall performance and achievements.
• Discuss the relationship between self-efficacy and motivation in achieving personal goals.
  • Self-efficacy and motivation are closely intertwined when it comes to achieving personal goals. High self-efficacy boosts motivation by instilling a belief that one can succeed, which leads to setting higher goals and maintaining effort. On the other hand, if an individual doubts their abilities (low self-efficacy), their motivation can wane, resulting in reduced effort and lower goal attainment. Thus, fostering self-efficacy is essential for enhancing motivation.
• Evaluate the impact of social modeling on an individual's self-efficacy and subsequent performance outcomes.
  • Social modeling plays a vital role in shaping an individual's self-efficacy by providing examples of success that can inspire belief in one's capabilities. When individuals observe peers or role models successfully overcoming challenges, they may develop increased confidence in their abilities, leading to improved performance outcomes. This process underscores the importance of a supportive environment where positive examples are shared, highlighting how witnessing success can translate into enhanced self-belief and ultimately better performance.

Related terms

Self-esteem: The overall sense of personal value or self-worth that a person has about themselves.

Motivation: The process that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors, influenced by an individual's belief in their capabilities.

Outcome Expectancy: The belief about the likelihood of the outcomes of one's actions, which can impact self-efficacy and motivation.