Social Cognitive Theory: The Role of Self-Efficacy in Forensic Rehabilitation

Social cognitive theory (SCT) refers to a person’s ability to learn through social observation. That involves a triadic model of dynamic interaction between personal, social, and environmental factors. However, self-efficacy plays a vital role in observational learning determining a person’s ability to engage successfully in the new behaviours. SCT can be implemented in the rehabilitation of psychiatric patients in post-forensic settings. Research suggests that peer support and housing which fits one’s needs, are key to one’s integration back into the community and are vital components in developing self-efficacy. Future research and implementations of SCT in forensic and post-forensic settings are discussed.