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 can produce desired effects by their actions, they have little incentive to act Self-efficacy beliefs promote desired changes through cognitive, motivational, affective and choice processes Perceived self-efficacy exerts us 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
