How is self-efficacy defined?

Self-efficacy is defined as the belief in one's own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish tasks. This concept is crucial in psychology as it influences how individuals approach challenges and their overall motivation. When people have high self-efficacy, they tend to set challenging goals, persevere in the face of difficulties, and view obstacles as tasks to be mastered, rather than as threats. This belief can positively impact performance across various domains, contributing to resilience and determination.

The other definitions do not encapsulate the essence of self-efficacy. While belief in social skills, understanding emotional responses, and assessing personal relationships are important psychological constructs, they do not specifically address the confidence in one’s own ability to perform or succeed in given situations, which is the core of self-efficacy. Therefore, focusing on the belief in one’s capability aligns directly with the definition of self-efficacy.