The relative utility of self-efficacy expectancy, outcome expectancy, outcome value, and behavioral intentions in explaining and predicting behavior

The study reported here employed a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial design. High and low levels of self-efficacy expectancy, outcome expectancy, and outcome value regarding a job-related behavior were manipulated via written comrounications given to subjects. Experimental manipulation of these variables was chosen over a correlational study since it allows for a stronger case to be roade that these variables roediate any differences found on dependent measures. Measures of behavioral intentions, behavioral commitment, and behavioral persistence served as the dependent measures. Other non-manipulated predictor variables which were assessed to determine their relationship with the dependent measures include willingness to engage in the target behavior and self-efficacy expectancy for alternative, coropeting behaviors.