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Video Futures Project

Why Does Self-Modeling Work?

Faces artVideo self-modeling is a supportive tool that can help teach specific skills. It shows a person how she/he can do something and provides a visual image of the action. There are two primary theories why video self-modeling is effective.


Man working on motor.Improves
Self-Confidence

Some people believe that self-modeling works because it clearly shows a person specific skills they need, helps perform desired behaviors, and provides a vision for their future. In a self-modeling videotape, people watch themselves performing at a desired skill level,  which increases self-confidence in their ability to perform that behavior or skill. With increased confidence, the individual is more likely to actually perform the behavior. This is known as self-efficacy.

Man and woman talking over papers.Provides Precise Instructions

Other researchers believe that self-modeling works because it provides a person with a correct and precise set of instructions. Because a person is watching her/himself perform the behaviors, she/he obviously understands what she/he is doing, and there is little confusion about what is expected.

The main requirement for self-modeling to work is the person must WANT to change!

DISCLAIMER:  The pictures contained in the Video Futures Website do not correspond with any of the stories or names expressed.

What is the Video Futures Project? | What is Video Self-Modeling (VSM)? | When is Video Self-Modeling Used? | Different Types of Video Self-Modeling | Why Does Self-modeling Work? | Success Stories | References and Further Reading | Order Video Futures Kit

 

Modified 9/19/05

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Artwork reprinted by permission of Martha Perske from
Perske: Pencil Portraits 1971-1990 (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1998)