Egenförmåga

Egenförmåga, also known as self-efficacy, is a person's belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish certain tasks. It was first introduced by Albert Bandura in 1977 and has since been a significant area of study in psychology and education. Self-efficacy is not a fixed trait but rather a dynamic construct that can change over time based on experiences and feedback.

Bandura proposed that self-efficacy is influenced by four main sources: mastery experiences, vicarious experiences, verbal persuasion, and physiological states. Mastery experiences refer to the outcomes of one's previous attempts at similar tasks. Vicarious experiences involve observing others' successful or unsuccessful attempts at similar tasks. Verbal persuasion includes encouragement and support from others, while physiological states refer to the body's responses to stress and anxiety.

Self-efficacy plays a crucial role in motivation, goal-setting, and performance. Individuals with high self-efficacy are more likely to set challenging goals, persist in the face of obstacles, and achieve their objectives. Conversely, low self-efficacy can lead to avoidance, lack of effort, and poor performance.

Research has shown that self-efficacy is relevant across various domains, including academic achievement, physical activity, and professional success. It is also linked to mental health, with high self-efficacy associated with better coping strategies and resilience.

In summary, egenförmåga, or self-efficacy, is a key concept in understanding human behavior and performance. It is a dynamic belief in one's ability to succeed in specific situations, influenced by various factors and playing a significant role in motivation and achievement.