competence

Meaning: Competence is the actual or perceived ability to act effectively and master tasks. In self-determination theory it is one of three basic psychological needs, along with autonomy and relatedness. When these needs are met, intrinsic motivation tends to be stronger. In Erikson's psychosocial theory, school-age children in the industry versus inferiority stage develop competence when they gain skills and are encouraged. Repeated failure or criticism can leave them feeling inferior. In language, linguistic competence is a speaker's underlying knowledge of grammar, and performance is actual speech, which can contain errors.

On the MCAT: A passage describes a child, student or employee who is given tasks, feedback or rewards. You predict the effect on motivation or development. Typical questions ask which need is being met or thwarted, or which Erikson stage and outcome fit the scenario. Controlling rewards or harsh feedback can lower intrinsic motivation, while achievable challenges with supportive feedback tend to raise it.

Common confusion: Competence is not the same as self-efficacy. Competence is a general sense of capability (or a need), while self-efficacy, from Bandura, is belief in one's ability to succeed at a specific task. In Erikson's theory, competence is the virtue gained from resolving the stage well, not the name of the conflict. A grammar mistake in speech does not mean a lack of linguistic competence.