What does self-efficacy refer to?

Self-efficacy refers to a belief in one's ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. This concept is grounded in the social cognitive theory developed by Albert Bandura, which emphasizes the role of observational learning, imitation, and modeling in behavior. Individuals with high self-efficacy are more likely to take on challenging tasks, persist in the face of obstacles, and achieve their goals, as they believe they have the capability to manage and control their circumstances.

This belief can significantly affect motivation and behavior; individuals who perceive themselves as capable are more likely to embrace learning opportunities and tackle difficult assignments, viewing them as chances for growth rather than threats. On the contrary, those with low self-efficacy may avoid challenges and give up easily, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy regarding their perceived inadequacies.

While the other options touch on various competencies and assessments, they do not capture the essence of self-efficacy, which is specifically focused on an individual's confidence in their own abilities rather than external assessments or comparisons to others.