Preliminary Psychometric Evaluation of a New Self-Efficacy Scale and Its Relationship to Treatment Outcome in Social Anxiety Disorder

The concept of self-efficacy as applied to individuals with social anxiety disorder (SAD) represents a person's confidence in being able to convey a favorable impression to others. The current study investigated the psychometric properties and clinical usefulness of a new measure called the Self-Efficacy for Social Situations (SESS) Scale. Results provide preliminary evidence for the reliability and validity of the SESS in a clinical sample of individuals with SAD. Pre- to posttreatment change in self-efficacy was a significant and independent predictor of change in social anxiety symptoms. Implications for treatment are discussed.