title: Self-efficacy and resource allocation: support for a nonmonotonic, discontinuous model.
abstract: Self-regulation theories are paving the way to integrating motivational theories of behavior. However, a review of the motivation literature reveals several possible relationships between self-efficacy and motivation. Past findings were reduced to 4 empirical models, which were compared within a single study using undergraduates playing a computer task. The effects of 2 manipulations of self-efficacy on resource allocation decisions were assessed. Consistent with a multiple goal process conceptualization, self-efficacy was found to relate positively to directing resources toward a goal but negatively to the magnitude of resources allocated for accepted goals. Differences in methods are used to reconcile current and past findings.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, Ohio University, Atnes, OH 45701, USA. vancouve@ohio.edu
authors.forename: Jeffrey B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Vancouver
authors.forename: Kristen M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: More
authors.forename: Ryan J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Yoder
mesh_terms: D000124:Achievement; D000328:Adult; D003469:Culture; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009042:Motivation; D011214:Practice, Psychological; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012718:Set, Psychology; D018910:Video Games