Self-efficacy is a key construct within social cognitive theory. Self-efficacy
describes a person's self-assessment of the capabilities necessary to perform a specific
task (see also Bandura, 1986; Gist, 1987). Self-efficacy can influence aspirations, effort,
persistence, and thought patterns (Neck & Houghton, 2006, p. 279). Bandura (1977)
considered self-efficacy a critical part of social learning theory because it demonstrated
"how much effort people will expend, and how long they will persist in the face of
obstacles" (p. 80).