Self-efficacy refers to an individual’s belief in his or her
innate ability to achieve goals and master specific tasks. It is
linked to the following factors:
- Mastery Experiences: Finding success in mastering a task or
controlling an environment will build self-efficacy whereas a
failure will undermine that efficacy.
- Vicarious Experiences: Observing similar others succeed by
their sustained effort raises individuals’ confidence with respect
to their capabilities.
- Verbal Persuasion: Verbal encouragement from role models such
as parents, teachers, managers or coaches can strengthen
individuals’ beliefs in their abilities.
- Emotional & Physiological States: Stress reactions or
tensions are likely to lead to poor performance whereas positive
emotions can boost individuals’ confidence in their skills.