Theory #1: Self-Efficacy Theory

Influences whether individuals will attempt tasks based on perceived capability.
Concept: People will only try to do what they think they can do, and won’t try what they think they can’t do.
- "I think I can, I think I can…"

Strong Self-Efficacy:
- challenges = opportunity
- Set and commit to goals.
- Approach difficulties with confidence.
- Experience lower rates of depression and stress.
Weak Self-Efficacy:
- See challenges as threats; tend to avoid them.
- Give up easily after failure.
- Quickly lose confidence in abilities.
- More prone to depression and stress.

Mastery Experiences:
- Success = increased self-efficacy.
- Building self-efficacy through mastery requires:
  - Trying difficult tasks.
  - Overcoming challenges.
  - Practicing difficult skills.
Vicarious Experiences:
- Learning through observing similar individuals succeed or fail.
- Watching failures from someone similar to you can negatively impact self-efficacy.
Verbal Persuasion:
- Encouragement from others boosts self-efficacy.
- Negative verbal feedback can threaten self-efficacy.
Physiological/Emotional States:
- Positive emotions (joy, excitement) enhance self-efficacy.
- Negative emotions (fear, anxiety) can diminish it.

Importance of exercise for health, especially in older adults:
- Maintains healthy weight, flexibility, balance, muscle strength.
- Prevents serious issues related to lack of strength and balance.
- Engaging older adults in physical activity is vital for well-being.