What does "self-efficacy" refer to in health coaching?

Self-efficacy is defined as an individual's belief in their capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments. In the context of health coaching, self-efficacy plays a crucial role because it directly influences a person's motivation, effort, and persistence in pursuing health-related goals. When clients believe in their ability to successfully make changes—such as improving diet, increasing physical activity, or managing stress—they are more likely to engage in the behaviors required for those changes. This self-belief can empower clients to overcome obstacles and maintain their efforts over time.

The focus on specific situations highlights that self-efficacy can vary depending on the task or context, such as weight loss, smoking cessation, or stress management. Therefore, by enhancing a client's self-efficacy, health coaches can foster greater commitment and resilience in their health journey, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.