Gillian's club is planning a five-mile race as a fundraiser. Because Gillian had never run in a race before, she is certain that she will not be able to complete the five miles and instead volunteers to screen and register the runners. How might the social cognitive theory be used to explain Gillian's behavior?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the social cognitive theory, self-efficacy, or the belief in one's ability to successfully perform a task, is a major factor in determining behavior. Gillian has a strong sense of self-efficacy when it comes to tasks such as talking to people and writing down information, but a weak sense of self-efficacy when it comes to running in a race. Therefore, she chooses to volunteer for a role that she feels more confident in, rather than attempting to run the race. Option A is incorrect because there is no evidence that Gillian lacks persistence. Option B is unlikely since there is no information indicating anything about her childhood experiences. Option D is also unlikely as there is no information to suggest that Gillian has any unresolved conflicts regarding her femininity or repressed competitive urges.

Gillian's Club Is Planning a Five-Mile Race as a Fundraiser