A sociocognitive analysis of substance abuse: An agentic perspective

Journal/Book: Psychol Sci. 1999; 10: 350 Main Street, Ste 6, Malden, MA 02148, USA. Blackwell Publishers. 214-217.

Abstract: This article presents a social-cognitive theory of substance abuse. The exercise of self-regulatory agency plays a central role in this approach. Perceived self-efficacy is the foundation of human agency. Unless people believe they cart produce desired effects by their actions, they have little incentive to net Self-efficacy beliefs promote desired changes through cognitive, motivational, affective, and choice processes. Perceived self-efficacy exerts its effects on every phase of personal change-the initiation of efforts to overcome substance abuse, achievement of desired changes, recovery from relapses, and long-term maintenance of a drug-free life. Assessments of perceived efficacy identify areas of vulnerability and provide guides for treatment. Substance abuse is a social problem, not just a personal one. Reducing substance abuse also requires policy initiatives and social remedies achieved through the exercise of collective efficacy.

Note: Article Bandura A, Stanford Univ, Dept Psychol, Stanford,CA 94305 USA

Keyword(s): PERCEIVED SELF-EFFICACY; ALCOHOLICS; RECOVERY; ADDICTS; SMOKING

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