What does self-efficacy refer to in psychological terms?

Self-efficacy is a concept in psychology that denotes an individual's belief in their own capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments. This self-perception of one’s abilities influences how they approach challenges, set goals, and persevere in the face of adversity. A strong sense of self-efficacy can lead to greater motivation and improved performance, as individuals are more likely to engage with and overcome challenges when they believe in their capabilities.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the core concept of self-efficacy. The measure of how others perceive an individual focuses on external validation rather than personal belief and confidence. Avoiding challenges is often a sign of low self-efficacy, as individuals may lack confidence in their abilities, and a relational dynamic within teams pertains to interactions and relationships rather than individual self-belief. Thus, the definition centered on personal belief in one's ability to succeed encapsulates self-efficacy perfectly.