Video 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.
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.
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!
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