What is the primary reason for focusing on what individuals can do according to social cognitive theory?

Social cognitive theory emphasizes understanding how personal beliefs, environmental factors, and behavioral outcomes interact to influence an individual's actions. Focusing on what individuals can do aligns with the theory's core principle of enhancing self-efficacy, which is the belief in one's capabilities to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific achievements.

By centering on capabilities, individuals are encouraged to recognize their strengths and potential for success. This recognition boosts their confidence and motivation to pursue their goals, leading to more effective behavioral change. Enhancing capability recognition helps individuals to set realistic and achievable goals, and reinforces the belief that they have control over their actions and outcomes. This empowerment is essential for fostering resilience and persistence when faced with challenges.

In this context, minimizing negative feelings or clarifying external limitations might be secondary outcomes of focusing on capabilities, but they are not the primary reason. Promoting self-doubt runs counter to the intent of the theory, as it undermines an individual's self-efficacy and motivation. Therefore, enhancing capability recognition is the most pertinent reason within the framework of social cognitive theory.