An examination of the effects of verbal persuasion on an individual's judgment of self-efficacy

Michael H Newlin, Purdue University

Abstract

This study was designed to examine the influence of verbal persuasion on self-efficacy judgments. The first goal was to demonstrate that self-relevant verbal persuasion could significantly influence self-efficacy ratings when past performance and vicarious (or modeling) performance experiences were unavailable. The second goal of the study was to identify whether message (strength of persuasive arguments) and communicator characteristics (expertise), known to influence the effectiveness of verbal persuasion in the formation and alteration of attitudes, have similar effect on self-efficacy ratings. Based on the heuristic-systematic model of attitude change, the third goal of the study was to identify whether outcome-relevant involvement can serve to influence the aspects of the verbal persuasion that influence self-efficacy ratings. Results supported the ability of positive verbal persuasion to influence self-efficacy. No support was found for the influence on self-efficacy ratings of communicator or message characteristics or the hypothesized relationship based on the Systematic-Heuristic model. The findings are discussed with respect to the implications for Bandura's model of self-efficacy information sources and the heuristic-systematic model of attitude change.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Henry, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Social psychology|Personality|Occupational psychology

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