How is self-efficacy best defined?

Self-efficacy is best defined as a person's estimate of their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. This concept, introduced by psychologist Albert Bandura, emphasizes that self-efficacy influences motivation, perseverance, and resilience in the face of challenges. When individuals believe in their capability to perform a task or overcome obstacles, they are more likely to engage in that behavior and persist longer, even when faced with difficulties. This belief in one's own abilities plays a crucial role in how people approach goals, tasks, and challenges, impacting their overall performance and emotional state.

In the context of the other options, while communal success and achievements, external support, and goal setting can play important roles in an individual's journey, they do not directly capture the essence of self-efficacy. Self-efficacy specifically centers on personal belief in one's capabilities, distinguishing it from external factors or collaborative efforts.