Final answer:
Bandura's self-system, part of his social-cognitive theory, is the means by which an individual perceives, evaluates, and regulates their behavior to achieve goals, encompassing self-efficacy and reciprocal determinism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of Bandura's self-system is essentially part of his broader social-cognitive theory, which posits that individuals' personalities are formed by a combination of cognitive processes, behavior, and contextual factors. Specifically, the term refers to option C: "the way a person perceives, evaluates, and regulates his or her own behavior so that it is appropriate and so that goals are achieved." Self-system includes the dynamic interplay of personal factors, such as beliefs about one's abilities (self-efficacy), behavioral patterns, and the environment, which together influence outcomes. This concept reflects Bandura's reciprocal determinism, suggesting that not only does the environment influence individuals, but individuals also influence their environment through their thoughts and behaviors. An example of the self-system in action could be a student's belief in their ability to excel in mathematics (self-efficacy), which influences their study behaviors and ultimately their performance in math class, also potentially altering the teaching methods used by the educator in response to the student's needs.