Abstract
The capability to perform essential activities of daily living (ADLs) is based, in part, on one's perceived judgments that one can do so. We provide an overview of self-efficacy theory as it relates to ADLs, a review of the relevant research, and strategies for enhancing self-efficacy beliefs for movement and mobility. Evidence for the effectiveness of self-efficacy as an influential mechanism in one's ability to engage in essential movement comes from three primary lines of research: gait control and balance, aging, and pain management and chronic disease. Techniques for enhancing self-efficacy are provided based on the four major sources of self-efficacy information: mastery experiences, modeling, persuasion/communication, and anxiety-reduction.