How self-efficacy can help!

When challenged with dealing with chronic illness or trying to adhere to a weight loss program, a wellness program or a diabetes management regimen, researchers have found that people who have a sense of “self-efficacy” may be more successful in adhering to their plan.
Even if other psychosocial supports - such as family or support group, are not all favorable, a strong sense of self-efficacy can offset these difficulties.

The concept of self-efficacy was proposed by Bandura (1977) and was developed within the framework of what is called “social learning theory.” The self-efficacy model defines self-efficacy as the individual’s perception of his or her ability to carry out a given behavior or group of behaviors.  This sense of self efficacy has an effect on the person’s emotions (feelings), cognitions (thoughts), and motivation in difficult or threatening situations such as facing life-long self management of illness or health maintenance.   In other words, if a person faced with the demands of self-management gains a sense of self-efficacy, then mood, and  thoughts and his/her motivation may be enhanced and in turn, contribute to success in self-care of one’s health.