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Path analysis was used to test the predictive and mediational role of self-efficacy beliefs in mathematical problem solving. Results revealed that math self-efficacy was more predictive of problem solving than was math self-concept, perceived usefulness of mathematics, prior experi-ence with mathematics, or gender (N = 350). Self-efficacy also mediated the effect of gender and prior experience on self-concept, perceived usefulness, and problem solving. Gender and prior experience influenced self-concept, perceived usefulness, and problem solving largely through the mediational role of self-efficacy. Men had higher performance, self-efficacy, and self-concept and lower anxiety, but these differences were due largely to the influence of self-efficacy, for gender had a direct effect only on self-efficacy and a prior experience variable. Results support the hypothesized role of self-efficacy in A. Banduras (1986) social cognitive theory. Social cognitive theory suggests that self-efficacy, peo-ples judgments of their capabilities to organize and execute courses of action required to attain designated types of performances (Bandura, 1986, p. 391), strongly influences the choices people make, the effort they expend, and how
Pajares et al. (Wed,) studied this question.