What is the function of self-efficacy in therapy?

• A. It reinforces passive acceptance of emotions.
• B. It undermines a sense of control.
• C. It enables clients to transition from feelings of helplessness to taking active control of their emotions, thoughts, and actions.
• D. It has no impact on anxiety or depression.

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how confidence in one’s own abilities shapes engagement in therapy. Self-efficacy is the belief that you can organize and execute the actions needed to manage challenging situations. In therapy, this belief helps clients move from feeling helpless to taking active control over their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. When people feel capable, they’re more likely to try coping strategies, persist with homework, and confront difficulties rather than avoid them, which leads to better outcomes for anxiety and depression. This aligns with CBT aims to empower clients to regulate their own thinking and actions through mastery experiences, modeling, and encouragement.

Options that emphasize passivity or no impact don’t fit, because self-efficacy inherently promotes active coping and a sense of control, which reduces distress over time.