Self-Efficacy Beliefs Related to Movement and Mobility

The capability to perform essential activities of daily living (ADLs) is based, in part, on one's perceived judgments that one can do so. We provide an overview of self-efficacy theory as it relates to ADLs, a review of the relevant research, and strategies for enhancing self-efficacy beliefs for movement and mobility. Evidence for the effectiveness of self-efficacy as an influential mechanism in one's ability to engage in essential movement comes from three primary lines of research: gait control and balance, aging, and pain management and chronic disease. Techniques for enhancing self-efficacy are provided based on the four major sources of self-efficacy information: mastery experiences, modeling, persuasion/communication, and anxiety-reduction.