What is self-efficacy in Social Learning Theory?

• A. It is the conviction that one can successfully perform tasks to achieve goals.
• B. It is the likelihood of being punished.
• C. It is a measure of intelligence.
• D. It is a trait indicating happiness.

Answer: (A)

Self-efficacy is the conviction that one can successfully perform tasks to achieve goals. In Social Learning Theory, this belief shapes whether you start a task, how much effort you invest, how long you persist, and how you handle obstacles. It’s task-specific and built from mastering experiences, watching others succeed, encouragement, and your emotional state. The other options describe punishment, general intelligence, or happiness, none of which capture the specific belief in one’s capability to execute actions to reach a goal.