What does self-efficacy refer to?

Self-efficacy refers to the belief in one's own competence and capabilities to perform tasks and achieve goals. This concept, developed by psychologist Albert Bandura, emphasizes the importance of self-perception in motivating individuals to take action and persist in the face of challenges. When individuals have a strong sense of self-efficacy, they are more likely to approach difficult tasks as challenges to be mastered rather than threats to be avoided. This belief in one’s abilities can greatly influence the choices they make, the effort they put forth, and their resilience in the face of setbacks.

The other choices articulate concepts that do not align with the definition of self-efficacy. Belief in others' competence pertains to the confidence in other people's abilities but does not reflect one's self-perception. Dependence on external validation indicates reliance on others' opinions for self-worth or affirmation, which contrasts with the idea of an internal belief in oneself. Similarly, fear of failure and self-doubt indicate negative self-perception and lack of confidence, which opposes the empowering notion of self-efficacy. Thus, the choice that accurately captures the essence of self-efficacy is the belief in one’s own competence and capability.