What term describes the belief in one's ability to perform a task?

The term that specifically describes the belief in one's ability to perform a task is self-efficacy. Self-efficacy refers to an individual's perception of their capabilities to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments. This concept is central to motivation and behavior patterns, as it influences how people approach challenges and tasks. High self-efficacy can lead to greater effort and persistence in the face of difficulties, while low self-efficacy may result in avoidance of challenges and a lack of effort.

In contrast, self-confidence is a broader term that often encompasses a general sense of trust in one’s abilities but does not specifically address the contextual skills or tasks like self-efficacy does. Social loafing refers to the phenomenon where individuals in a group put in less effort than they would if working alone, and social facilitation describes how the presence of others can enhance or impair an individual’s performance. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why self-efficacy is the most accurate term for the belief in one's ability to perform a specific task.