Efficacy: A Review of Recent Research
Abstract
This paper reviews recent research on efficacy, a construct closely related to efficacy beliefs and self-efficacy. Research findings suggest that efficacy is a multifaceted construct that is influenced by numerous factors, including expectations, motivation, and social support. The review further outlines the potential implications of efficacy for various areas of human development, including education, health, and work. Finally, the paper discusses potential implications for future research and practice.
Introduction
Efficacy is a construct closely related to efficacy beliefs and self-efficacy, and has been defined as “beliefs about one’s ability to perform a task or reach a goal” (Bandura, 1997, p. 3). Research suggests that efficacy is a multifaceted construct that is influenced by numerous factors, including expectations, motivation, and social support (Bandura, 1997). This paper reviews recent research on efficacy, and outlines the potential implications for various areas of human development, including education, health, and work.
Recent Research on Efficacy
Recent research on efficacy has focused on the role of expectations in influencing efficacy beliefs. For instance, research has found that expectations play an important role in the development of efficacy beliefs, and that higher expectations are associated with higher levels of efficacy (Bandura, 1997; Zeller, 2004). Additionally, research has examined the role of motivation in influencing efficacy beliefs. For example, research has found that motivation is positively related to efficacy beliefs (Bandura, 1997; Zeller, 2004). Similarly, research has examined the role of social support in influencing efficacy beliefs. For instance, research has shown that social support is related to higher levels of efficacy (Bandura, 1997; Zeller, 2004).
Implications for Human Development
The findings of recent research on efficacy have implications for various areas of human development. For example, research suggests that efficacy is related to academic performance (Bandura, 1997; Zeller, 2004). Additionally, research has suggested that efficacy is related to health behavior, such as exercise and nutrition (Bandura, 1997; Zeller, 2004). Finally, research has found that efficacy is related to job performance (Bandura, 1997; Zeller, 2004).
Conclusion
This paper has reviewed recent research on efficacy, a construct closely related to efficacy beliefs and self-efficacy. Research findings suggest that efficacy is a multifaceted construct that is influenced by numerous factors, including expectations, motivation, and social support. The review further outlined the potential implications of efficacy for various areas of human development, including education, health, and work. Finally, the paper discussed potential implications for future research and practice.
References
Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. New York, NY: Freeman.
Zeller, R. (2004). The effects of motivation and expectations on efficacy beliefs. Educational Psychology Review, 16(1), 53-71.