reading - self efficacy

Abstract

• self-efficacy theory,

  • which posits that individuals' beliefs in their capabilities to achieve desired outcomes are critical determinants of their behavior, perseverance, and psychological adjustment.

• explores three key questions: (a) What is self-efficacy? (b) Where do self-efficacy beliefs come from? (c) Why is self-efficacy important?

• also discusses collective efficacy

  • group members' shared belief in their ability to achieve common goals.

What Is Self-Efficacy?

• Definition: Belief in one's capacity to execute specific behaviors that achieve intended outcomes

• Distinct from:

  • Self-esteem (general self-worth)

  • Intentions

  • Focuses on domain-specific beliefs rather than general abilities.

  • Outcome expectancies

Why Is Self-Efficacy Important?

1. Psychological Well-Being:

   • Low self-efficacy linked to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders.

   • Enhances resilience and coping strategies.

2. Physical Health:

   • Predicts adoption of healthy behaviors (e.g., exercise, smoking cessation) and adherence to medical regimens.

   • Affects stress-related biological processes (e.g., immune function).

3. Self-Regulation:

   • Influences goal-setting, effort, persistence, and problem-solving efficiency.

   • High efficacy fosters task-focused persistence; low efficacy leads to self-doubt.

4. Psychotherapy:

   • Interventions (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy) boost efficacy through mastery experiences, modeling, and cognitive restructuring.

5. Collective Efficacy:

   • Groups’ shared belief in their collaborative ability impacts outcomes (e.g., team performance, academic achievement, marital satisfaction).

Where Does Self-Efficacy Come From?

• Developed through social cognitive theory, which emphasizes human agency and interaction between environment, cognition, and behavior.

• Key sources of self-efficacy:

  • Performance experiences (mastery) – most influential

  • Vicarious experiences – observing similar others

  • Imagined experiences – visualization techniques

  • Verbal persuasion – credible encouragement

  • Physiological and emotional states – e.g., calmness vs. anxiety during tasks

Key Takeaways

• Self-efficacy is foundational for motivation, resilience, and success.

• It is cultivated through mastery, observation, and social support.

• Applications span health, education, therapy, and organizational behavior.

• The article aligns with positive psychology by emphasizing human potential and agency.