“I Got This!”

Abstract

This chapter discusses the role of self-efficacy and confidence as foundations for student success and well-being. Based on the work of Albert Bandura and social learning theory, the goal is for individuals to feel that they are able to identify and solve problems on their own. Low self-efficacy can lead to depression because a lack of control causes disappointment and pessimism. Academic self-efficacy is identified as one of the factors that is necessary for a positive college experience. A case of a student with limited social self-efficacy is examined, with suggestions of how parents can help, including how to give accurate and optimistic feedback based on strengths and weaknesses. There is also a section on how bias and stereotyping undercut the feeling of self-efficacy and how parents can encourage their teens to push back and not internalize these prejudices.