What does the term "self-efficacy" refer to?

The term "self-efficacy" specifically refers to an individual's belief in their own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. This concept, introduced by psychologist Albert Bandura, emphasizes the role of personal beliefs in determining one's approach to challenges, motivation, and persistence. High self-efficacy can lead to setting challenging goals, greater effort, and resilience in the face of setbacks.

Understanding self-efficacy is crucial because it influences how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. For example, someone with high self-efficacy is likely to view difficult tasks as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. This belief in one’s capabilities can enhance performance across various domains, including academic achievement, sports, and professional life.

The other choices touch on related concepts but do not encapsulate the essence of self-efficacy. Personal accomplishments are broader and can include a variety of factors beyond self-belief. External influences on motivation relate more to factors outside the individual, such as societal expectations or feedback from others, while confidence in social interactions pertains specifically to social situations rather than an overall belief in one’s capabilities across various tasks.