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Self-Efficacy

 There are numerous examples of Louise demonstrating determination and self-efficacy throughout the run of Bob's Burgers, but the most memorable one that comes to my mind is her leading the shenanigan of "robbing a train". First, the concept of "self-efficacy" refers to one's belief in their own abilities to do something or to perform a task correctly. Louise tends to operate with a brash and confident attitude, and it takes a lot to waver her from her confidence. In this episode, the kids are stuck attending a wine tasting event on a train with their parents, and due to it being meant for adults-only (children are allowed but not encouraged), they are forced to sit in a tiny "kids room" in the back of the train (the juice caboose!). The kids overhear how this train has very fancy and gourmet chocolate, and become determined to steal the chocolate from the kitchen so they can taste some. Louise acts as the leader during this event, she ends up orchestrating events such as announcing that it is her mother's birthday and she sneaks onto the cart (hiding under it) brought over by a waiter and is then let into the kitchen, and is able to take a lot of chocolate. From there she has to orchestrate getting the chocolate back to the kids' room discretely, and they even have to jump onto another train cart as they almost end up separating. Even in situations as scary as this, her confidence never wavers, and she has full self-efficacy in her abilities in orchestrating this dessert heist. In the end, the kids end up being successful and they do not get caught by any of the adults or employees on the train.

We can suspect that Louise has a strong sense of self-efficacy because she has been brought up in a loving and supporting home, and her parents have always reminded her that she is strong and capable, and should have confidence in her abilities. Louise has also never been afraid to stand out from the crowd and not conform to what other children are doing. I would also argue that Louise subscribes to "growth mindset" (believes that her intelligence and/or abilities can increase through hard work). Whenever Louise faces an obstacle or an adult dares to tell her she cannot do something, she and her stubborn pride refuse to back down and she inevitably succeeds with the task. 





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