Self-efficacy in vocational development of women in low-socio-economic communities

Abstract

This study sought to investigate self-efficacy in vocational development of women in low socio-economic communities. The main aim of the study was to investigate the sociocontextual factors influencing self-efficacy of women. The objectives were fourfold: to examine the levels of self-efficacy of these women; to ascertain the extent to which selfefficacy influences vocational development of women and to propose a pragmatic women developmental model for acceleration of access to vocational development. The study utilised Self-Efficacy Theory (SET) as its theoretical frame-work which originated from Bandura’s (1986) Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). The study employed the qualitative phenomenological approach which is concerned about the everyday experiences of individuals and how human beings experienced a certain phenomenon. The population of the study comprised of women in low socio-economic communities, traditional leaders; Community leaders; health workers and religious leaders. The sample for this study was 60 participants. Data were collected through interviews; participant observation; and focus group discussions. The study recommended the pragmatic Partnership of the Family, Church and the Society (F.C.S) Women Developmental Mode. The model emphasizes the importance of teamwork between all the community structures to help in building up the confidence of women in low socio-economic communities.