SELF AS PROACTIVE AND AGENTIC according to Albert Bandura

Albert Bandura and the Self

  • Albert Bandura: Canadian-American psychologist known for his social cognitive theory.

Social Cognitive Theory

  • Agents as Originators: According to Bandura, humans are not just reactors but also originators of experiences.

    • We have the capacity to act and make things happen.

    • Human Agency: The ability to exert influence over one’s functioning and course of events through actions.

  • Agency Definition: An individual’s power to control goals, actions, and destiny.

    • Examples: Pushy individuals, persuasive personalities, leaders.

    • Viewed as proactive agents of experience.

    • Proactive Behavior: Self-initiated actions taken to solve potential problems before they arise.

Four Components of Human Agency

  1. Intentionality

    • Involves forming intentions, including action plans and strategies to realize them.

    • Enables purposeful behavior.

    • Examples:

      • Planning time management for studying.

      • Developing strategic plans for personal goals.

  2. Forethought

    • The ability to anticipate outcomes based on options.

    • Helps in decision-making through evaluation of potential results.

    • Example:

      • Considering consequences of choices before making a decision.

  3. Self-Reactivity

    • The capacity to react to situations and regulate actions accordingly.

    • Involves making choices and motivating oneself towards appropriate actions.

    • Examples:

      • Adjusting exercise habits when gaining weight.

      • Committing to studying to achieve academic goals.

  4. Self-Reflectiveness

    • The ability to reflect on one's thoughts and actions critically.

    • Promotes self-examination in various situations.

    • Example:

      • Evaluating personal responses to different scenarios and learning from them.

Review of Human Agency Components

  • Intentionality: Behaving with purpose through plans and strategies.

  • Forethought: Anticipating potential outcomes before acting.

  • Self-Reactivity: Responding and motivating oneself based on circumstances.

  • Self-Reflectiveness: Assessing the adequacy of one's actions and thoughts.

Conclusion

  • Bandura’s perspective on the self emphasizes human capability to proactively influence life and experiences, focusing on four key components that define human agency.