Definition Of Self-Efficacy Theory

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Introduction and Definitions ‘Self-efficacy’ theory originated from Social Cognitive theory by Alberta Bandura. Self-efficacy is the belief that one has the power to produce that effect by completing a given task or activity related to that competency. Self-efficacy relates to a person’s perception of their ability to reach a goal. It is the belief that one is capable of performing in a certain manner to attain certain goals. It is the expectation that one can master a situation, and produce a positive outcome. Self-efficacy is an important concept in positive psychology. Bandura stated that self-efficacy played a role in determining how individuals felt, thought and motivated themselves, which then ultimately affected the behaviour and the outcome. He defined (1997, p. vii) self-efficacy as “peoples’ beliefs in their capabilities to produce desired effects by their own actions.” Similarly, Maddux (2009a, p .336) has described self-efficacy as “what I believe I can do with my skills under certain conditions.” According to Bandura, self-efficacy is defined as “an individual’s belief or conviction that they can successfully achieve at a designated level on an academic task or attain a specific academic goal” (Feltz et al. 2007, p. 14). Based on an examination of what needs to be done in order to reach a desired goal (these are called outcome expectancies), the person supposedly then analyses his or her own capability to complete the necessary actions (they are called