Achieving Self-Efficacy, An Applied Method (ASEAM): An Educational-based Approach - Case Study in IRAN

Authors: [1] Azadeh Kardani [2] Mojdeh Kardani [3] Mitra Kardani

Pages: 49-54

Abstract:

ASEAM is a training-based method for reducing anxiety and depression based on Bandura’s theory of increasing self-efficacy. Our goal is to study the effects of practicing ASEAM with adolescents to improve their self efficacy and reduce their anxiety and depression. The target population are students between the ages of 16-18 who have consulted with a counselor or a psychologist in southern Tehran from 2007-2008. Ninety (90) of these students were randomly selected to participate in this study. They were divided into two groups—control and experimental. Schwartz’s (1999) self efficacy questionnaire and Beck’s (1971) anxiety and depression questionnaire were used in collecting the data. A single variable, one-way ANCOVA t-test was used to analyze the data from the two groups. It is demonstrated that self-efficacy is neither a permanent structure nor personality traits, and can be improved using ASEAM to increase the self-efficacy among the participants. Our findings show a significant positive effect of practicing ASEAM on improving adolescents’ level of self-efficacy. Additionally, it is shown that the impact of practicing ASEAM on female participants is more tangible than their male counterparts.