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Self-efficacy predicts differential neuroticism change in a smartphone-based intervention
Michael D Krämer1, Amanda J Wright1, Peter Haehner1
1Department of Psychology, University of Zurich.
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
|August 10, 2026
Summary
Self-efficacy, not growth mindset, predicts personality change in digital interventions. Higher self-efficacy leads to reduced neuroticism and increased emotional resilience over time.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Digital Health
- Personality Science
Background:
- Digital interventions show promise for personality change, but individual differences in outcomes are poorly understood.
- Theoretical models suggest perceived feasibility, like self-efficacy, is crucial for intentional personality change.
- Motivation alone is insufficient for lasting trait modification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether self-efficacy and growth mindset predict changes in neuroticism during a digital intervention.
- To examine the temporal dynamics between weekly neuroticism and self-efficacy.
- To assess long-term effects on neuroticism and emotional resilience.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study with a German-speaking sample (N=446) undergoing a 6-week digital intervention.
- Weekly assessments of neuroticism and self-efficacy, with follow-up assessments.
- Statistical analyses to examine predictive relationships and temporal associations.
Main Results:
- Self-efficacy significantly predicted greater reductions in neuroticism and increases in emotional resilience.
- Higher self-efficacy was associated with continued improvement at follow-up.
- Weekly self-efficacy predicted subsequent neuroticism levels, suggesting a dynamic interplay.
Conclusions:
- Self-efficacy is a key predictor of successful personality change in digital interventions, supporting feasibility theories.
- A reciprocal relationship exists between weekly self-efficacy and neuroticism.
- Findings have implications for designing and optimizing digital interventions for personality modification.
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