What term refers to a general sense of competence or belief in one's own abilities?

The term that refers to a general sense of competence or belief in one's own abilities is self-confidence. Self-confidence encompasses an individual’s belief in their skills and capacity to accomplish tasks and meet challenges. It is a broader concept that is fundamental in various aspects of personal and professional life, allowing individuals to take risks and pursue goals.

While self-esteem relates to a person's overall sense of worthiness and value, it doesn’t exclusively address belief in specific abilities. Self-awareness involves understanding one's emotions, strengths, and weaknesses, which contributes to self-confidence but is not synonymous with it. Self-perception is how one views themselves, which can influence both self-esteem and self-confidence, but it does not specifically convey the assurance in one's abilities that self-confidence does. Thus, self-confidence is the most accurate descriptor of the belief in one's own competence and capabilities.