Self-efficacy, which often relays a sense of confidence in one's abilities, can vary significantly throughout different life stages. Generally, self-efficacy tends to be lower during late adulthood compared to early childhood, middle adulthood, and adolescence.
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Early Childhood: Young children often exhibit a high level of self-efficacy as they explore their environment and develop new skills.
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Adolescence: During this stage, self-efficacy can fluctuate due to numerous social, emotional, and cognitive changes, but adolescents often experience a significant boost in self-efficacy as they develop their identities and take on new challenges.
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Middle Adulthood: Typically, individuals in this age group experience a stable or even increased self-efficacy as they build careers, relationships, and parenting skills.
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Late Adulthood: In contrast, self-efficacy may be lower in late adulthood due to challenges such as declining health, loss of loved ones, or changes in social roles, which can impact one’s confidence in their abilities.
In summary, self-efficacy tends to be lower during late adulthood compared to the other stages mentioned.