An agentic perspective on positive psychology.

The present chapter addresses the field of positive psychology from the agentic perspective of social cognitive theory (Bandura, 1986; 2006a). To be an agent is to influence intentionally one’s functioning and the course of environmental events. In this view, people are contributors to their life circumstances not just products of them. Among the mechanisms of agency none is more central or pervasive than beliefs of personal efficacy. This core belief is the foundation of human motivation, well-being, and accomplishments. Unless people believe they can produce desired effects by their actions they have little incentive to act or to persevere in the face of difficulties. Whatever other factors serve as guides and motivators, they are rooted in the core belief, that one has the power to effect changes by one’s actions.

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