The brain functional connectivity in the default mode network is associated with self-efficacy in young adults.

Abstract

Self-efficacy is a subjective belief that depends on self-related past experience, and is a strong predictor for individual future performance. To the aim of promoting one's future performance, it is necessary to gain better knowledge of it's cognitive process and brain mechanism. The present research sought to investigate the functional connectivity basis of self-efficacy by using the resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data of a large sample of young adults (536 participants). Multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the relationship between self-efficacy integrated score and brain functional connectivity measures. Gender, age, mean framewise displacement and grey matter volume were used as nuisance covariates. The whole-brain analysis revealed an association between self-efficacy and the functional connectivity of several regions within the default mode network. These regions included the right anterior cingulate cortex, the left posterior cingulate cortex/precuneus and bilateral parahippocampal cortex. Our findings suggest that the default mode network plays a crucial role in self-efficacy, and hold the view that episodic memory and self-related processing have influence on self-efficacy.