Which term describes a person's actual ability to perform a specific behavior?

Which term describes a person's actual ability to perform a specific behavior?

• A. Self-efficacy
• B. Behavioral Capability
• C. Expectations
• D. Reinforcements

Answer: (B)

Behavioral capability refers to an individual's actual ability to perform a specific behavior. This concept encompasses both knowledge and skills that are necessary for effectively carrying out a behavior. For example, in the context of exercise, having behavioral capability would imply that a person not only understands the techniques of a workout but is also physically capable of executing those exercises. This understanding is fundamental in exercise psychology, as it goes beyond simply believing one can perform a behavior (which is what self-efficacy refers to) and instead focuses on the practical skills and knowledge necessary to engage in that behavior. In contrast, the other terms refer to different constructs: self-efficacy is about a person's confidence in their ability to perform a task; expectations involve the anticipated outcomes of a behavior; and reinforcements pertain to consequences that may increase or decrease the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Each of these concepts plays a role in behavior change and motivation but does not specifically define a person's actual ability to perform a specific behavior as behavioral capability does. Thus, the correct term accurately represents the foundational elements required for engaging in specific behaviors effectively.

Behavioral capability refers to an individual's actual ability to perform a specific behavior. This concept encompasses both knowledge and skills that are necessary for effectively carrying out a behavior. For example, in the context of exercise, having behavioral capability would imply that a person not only understands the techniques of a workout but is also physically capable of executing those exercises. This understanding is fundamental in exercise psychology, as it goes beyond simply believing one can perform a behavior (which is what self-efficacy refers to) and instead focuses on the practical skills and knowledge necessary to engage in that behavior.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different constructs: self-efficacy is about a person's confidence in their ability to perform a task; expectations involve the anticipated outcomes of a behavior; and reinforcements pertain to consequences that may increase or decrease the likelihood of a behavior being repeated. Each of these concepts plays a role in behavior change and motivation but does not specifically define a person's actual ability to perform a specific behavior as behavioral capability does. Thus, the correct term accurately represents the foundational elements required for engaging in specific behaviors effectively.