Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory
The concept of self efficacy is the focal point of Albert Bandura’s social cognitive theory (Hirschi, 2009). By means of the self system, individuals exercise control over their thoughts, feelings, and actions.Savickas and Porfeli (2011) discuss beliefs with which an individual evaluates the control over his/her actions and environment, self-efficacy beliefs are the most influential predictor of human behavior. The level and strength of self-efficacy will determine:
• whether coping behavior will be initiated;
• how much effort will result;
• how long the effort will be sustained in the face of obstacles.
In essence, a person inputs (e.g. gender, race) interact with contextual factors (e.g. culture, family geography) and learning experiences to influence self-efficacy beliefs and outcome expectations.
Self-efficacy beliefs and outcome expectations in turn shape people’s interests, goals, actions, and eventually their attainments.
However, these are also influenced by contextual factors (e.g. job opportunities, access to training opportunities, financial resources).
In this theory providing opportunities, experiences and significant adults to impact self-efficacy in all children becomes vital. Strategic career development interventions will positively impact young people in the context of this theory (Whiston&Rahardja, 2008).
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