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self-efficacy

American  
[self-ef-i-kuh-see] / ˌsɛlfˈɛf ɪ kə si /

noun

  1. Psychology, Psychiatry. a person's belief in their own ability to succeed at a particular task or goal.


Etymology

Origin of self-efficacy

First recorded in 1645–55, for an earlier sense; coined in 1977 by Canadian-American psychologist Albert Bandura (1925–2021), for the current sense

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Such a perception can undermine feelings of self-efficacy," says Claassen.

From Science Daily

Stewart’s career and life have been anything but easy, but her story is ultimately a masterclass in grit, perseverance and self-efficacy.

From Salon

"When an adult steps in and completes a task for a young child, it can deprive the child of an opportunity to learn how to complete the task by themselves, which potentially harms their ability to develop self-efficacy, autonomy, and other important life skills," said lead author Reut Shachnai, a graduate student in Yale's Department of Psychology.

From Science Daily

For my mom, it was an exercise in self-efficacy.

From Slate

It’s his one source of self-esteem, self-efficacy and pride.

From Los Angeles Times