The Paradox of Self-Efficacy: Research With Diverse Populations

Abstract

Since its earliest applications to vocational psychology, self-efficacy has been recognized for its utility with diverse populations, attributable to its attention to environmental influences. Somewhat paradoxically, then, it has also been criticized as being limited in its applicability with people from other cultures, because of its focus on individual human agency. The current body of research on self-efficacy with diverse populations provides some insight into this paradox, although many questions remain unanswered. Self-efficacy literature with diverse populations is reviewed, theoretical questions are raised, and recommendations for future research are given.