Showing papers by "Albert Bandura published in 1980"

Tests of the generality of self-efficacy theory.

Abstract: The present set of studies tested the explanatory and predictive generality of self-efficacy theory across additional treatment modalities and behavioral domains. Microanalysis of changes accompanying symbolic modeling indicates that this mode of treatment enhances coping behavior partly through its effects on perceived efficacy. Cognizing modeled mastery of threats increased phobics' self-percepts of efficacy, which, in turn, predicted their specific performance attainments on tasks of varying threat value. Examination of efficacy probes revealed that making efficacy judgments has no effect on subsequent avoidance behavior or on fear arousal. The close congruence found between changes in self-efficacy and different forms of coping behavior in the treatment of agoraphobia provides some evidence for the generality of efficacy theory across different areas of functioning. Microanalysis of anticipatory and performance fear arousal accompanying varying strengths of self-efficacy also lends support for the social learning conception of fear arousal in terms of perceived coping inefficacy.

Gauging the relationship between self-efficacy judgment and action.

Abstract: Psychological theorizing and research tend to center on issues concerning either acquisition of knowledge or execution of response patterns. As a result, the processes governing the interrelationship between knowledge and action have been largely neglected (Newell, 1978). Some of the recent efforts to bridge this gap have been aimed at clarifying the mechanisms by which action plans guide the production of appropriate response patterns (Stelmach, 1976, 1978). The relationship between knowledge and action is also significantly mediated by self-referent thought. The issues addressed in this line of inquiry are concerned with how people judge their capabilities and how, through their self-percepts of efficacy, they affect their actions (Bandura, 1977, 1980). Self-efficacy is concerned with judgments of the likelihood that one can organize and execute given courses of action required to deal with prospective situations. Perceived self-efficacy can have diverse effects on behavior, thought patterns, and affective arousal. Self-percepts of efficacy influence choice behavior. People tend to avoid tasks they believe exceed their coping capabilities, but they undertake and perform assuredly activities they judge themselves capable of managing (Bandura, 1977). Selfjudged efficacy also determines how much effort people will expend and how long they will persist in the face of obstacles and aversive experiences. The stronger the perceived self-efficacy, the more vigorous and persistent are their efforts (Brown & Inouye, 1978; Schunk, 1979). People's perceptions of their own capabilities can also influence their thought processes and emotional reactions during anticipatory and actual transactions with the environment. People who judge themselves ineffectual in coping with environmental demands tend to generate high emotional arousal, become excessively preoccupied with personal deficiencies, and