Final answer:
The statement that self-efficacy is the belief in one's ability to master situations despite obstacles is true. Self-efficacy influences behaviors, motivation, and resilience, and it varies across different situations, impacting personal development and success significantly.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement is true: Self-efficacy is indeed the belief that one has the ability to master a situation in spite of obstacles. In psychology, self-efficacy is a critical concept that refers to an individual's belief in their capability to accomplish tasks and cope with challenges effectively. It plays a central role in motivation, as theorized by Albert Bandura, and influences how people think, behave, and feel. High self-efficacy is characterized by taking on challenging tasks, recovering quickly from setbacks, and maintaining a commitment to goals. In contrast, low self-efficacy can lead to avoiding challenges and dwelling on negative outcomes.
Importantly, self-efficacy can vary across different situations, implying that a person might feel confident in their abilities in one aspect (such as a subject they excel in) but less so in another (like a subject they find difficult). This concept differs from locus of control, which focuses on beliefs regarding the control one has over life events. Together, these cognitive factors play a substantial role in personality development and behavior. Bandura's extensive work on self-efficacy has been fundamental to our understanding of this construct and its impact on various domains of human functioning.