Action Quote by Albert Bandura
“People who are burdened by acute misgivings about their coping capabilities suffer much distress and expend much effort in defensive action... they cannot get themselves to do things they find subjectively threatening even though they are objectively safe. They may even shun easily manageable activities because they see them as leading to more threatening events over which they will be unable to exercise adequate control.”
About This Quote
Source Journal Article: Self‑Efficacy: The Exercise of Control, Albert Bandura, 1977
People with low confidence in coping skills experience anxiety and avoid safe tasks, leading to unnecessary distress.
In simple terms: Low self‑efficacy causes avoidance of safe activities.
Key Takeaway
Build confidence to face perceived threats.
Themes
psychology
anxiety
self‑efficacy
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
motivational
cognitive
When to use this quote
- workplace challenges
- health routines
- social interactions
- learning new skills
Key Concepts
cognitive appraisal
behavioral avoidance
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can increase self‑efficacy?
- How do external factors influence perceived safety?
A Different Perspective
Confidence alone may not overcome structural barriers.
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