Influence of Social Identity on Self-Efficacy Beliefs Through Perceived Social Support: A Social Identity Theory Perspective. Issue 5 (19th October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Guan, Mengfei; So, Jiyeon
• Is Part Of: Communication studies. Volume 67:Issue 5(2016)
• Page Start: 588
• Page End: 604
• Publication Date: 2016-10-19
• Subjects: Self-Efficacy -- Social Cognitive Theory -- Social Identity Theory -- Social Support; Communication -- Periodicals; Oratory -- Periodicals; 302.205
• DOI: 10.1080/10510974.2016.1239645
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1051-0974

Abstract

Abstract : While much research documents the influence of self-efficacy on enactment of health behaviors, relatively less attention has been given to the factors that influence self-efficacy. To enhance our understanding of the various sources of self-efficacy, this study integrated social identity theory into this context and proposed and tested a model, which describes a process through which social identity can influence self-efficacy of engaging in health-related behaviors. Consistent with the proposed meditational model, the findings showed that individuals who had stronger social identity with a given social group perceived greater social support from the group, which in turn predicted higher self-efficacy of engaging in a health-related behavior advocated by the group, and ultimately predicted greater behavioral intention. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.