What does "self-efficacy" refer to in personality psychology?

Self-efficacy is a concept in personality psychology that refers to an individual's belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish particular tasks. This belief influences how one approaches challenges, sets goals, and perseveres in the face of adversity. When a person has high self-efficacy, they are more likely to take on difficult tasks, remain resilient, and view failures as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to give up. This concept, developed by Albert Bandura, emphasizes the role of self-belief in motivation and behavior.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of self-efficacy. A fixed attribute suggests that personality traits or capabilities are static and unchangeable, which contradicts the dynamic nature of self-efficacy. Assessing others’ abilities relates more to social comparison rather than one’s own beliefs about personal capabilities. Lastly, while accepting failure can be beneficial for learning, it does not define self-efficacy, which specifically pertains to one’s confidence in their ability to handle tasks and challenges effectively.