Measurable physiological or neurochemical indicators that correlate directly with an individual’s psychological belief in their capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments or health outcomes. These biomarkers, which may include specific neuropeptide levels or neuroendocrine stress response profiles, serve as objective, quantifiable proxies for an individual’s subjective sense of control and competence. They link mental state to physiological function.
Origin
This term synthesizes Albert Bandura’s psychological concept of self-efficacy with the quantifiable measures of clinical biochemistry and endocrinology. It bridges the gap between psychological resilience and objective physiological status.
Mechanism
Self-efficacy is deeply intertwined with the regulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis and the release of catecholamines. A high sense of self-efficacy is often associated with a blunted, more adaptive cortisol response to stress, indicating a robust stress load tolerance. Conversely, low self-efficacy can correlate with chronic HPA axis activation and dysregulated dopamine signaling, which undermines the neurochemical basis for sustained motivation and confidence.
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