How is self-efficacy best defined?

Self-efficacy is best defined as 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 not just the capability to perform a task, but rather a personal conviction regarding one’s own potential to effect positive outcomes.

When people have high self-efficacy, they are more likely to take on challenging tasks, persist in the face of setbacks, and ultimately achieve their goals. This belief can influence one's motivation, resilience, and overall emotional state, playing a critical role in personal development and success.

In contrast, the other options focus on external factors or generalized beliefs that do not capture the essence of self-efficacy. For instance, believing in the success of others or understanding the success of a group does not imply a personal belief in one's own skills or capabilities. Similarly, confidence based on past achievements might influence self-efficacy but does not encompass its full definition, as self-efficacy is more about an individual's perceived abilities rather than a retrospective evaluation of achievements.