Theory of Personality (D564) Practice Exam

Bandura's concept of self-______ refers to an individual's beliefs about their own abilities and potential for success.

1. Awareness

2. Efficiency

3. Esteem

4. Efficacy

The correct answer is: Efficacy

The concept of self-efficacy, as proposed by Albert Bandura, refers specifically to an individual’s belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. This concept is crucial in the field of psychology as it influences how people think, feel, and act. Bandura's theory posits that higher self-efficacy can lead to greater motivation, resilience in the face of challenges, and a higher likelihood of achieving desired outcomes. Self-efficacy forms the foundation of Bandura’s social cognitive theory, emphasizing the role of observational learning, imitation, and modeling in development. When individuals believe they can execute actions that influence outcomes, they are more likely to engage in behaviors that lead to success. While self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-efficiency might relate to aspects of personal beliefs and evaluation, they do not encapsulate the specific capability-focused belief that self-efficacy conveys. Self-awareness involves understanding one’s emotions and behaviors, self-esteem pertains to one's overall sense of worth, and self-efficiency is not a widely recognized term in this context. The precise term that accurately reflects the belief in one's capabilities and potential for success is self-efficacy.