Usage and Applications of Self-Efficacy

Self-efficacy affects all aspects of life, including exercise and health behaviors, emotional responses, academic pursuits, and career choices. When one possesses high self-efficacy, one is more likely to choose tasks one believes one will succeed at, set and focus on higher goals, persevere, even in the face of adversity, and learn and achieve more than those without high self-efficacy (Ormrod, 2008). According to Ormrod (2008), social cognitive theorists believe self efficacy is developed from one's previous successes and failures, messages that others communicate, successes and failures of others, and successes and failures of the group as a whole. In other words, individuals determine their self efficacy by judging how they did in the past on certain activities, the feedback they receive from others, observing the results of others' attempts at certain tasks, and the results of how they work in a group on collaborative assignments (Ormrod, 2008). 

Others have significant influence on one's self-efficacy by providing praise and positive assurance regarding the possibility of success (Ormrod, 2008). Understanding how to help influence individuals to develop self-efficacy helps educators, parents, coaches and employers to design learning and work environments that provide the necessary feedback and support needed by the individuals (Fitton, 2008). Assisting children in developing their self-efficacy is vital and can be done by means of positive reinforcement and positive role modeling. Positive reinforcement and positive role-modeling help children learn more effectively and be more productive in their tasks. Aiding adults to develop high levels of self-efficacy is equally as important by helping them to become more productive in their surroundings, reduces stress, and has great potential to increase happiness.