Introduction. The sense of self-efficacy differentiates people in terms of cognitive and motivational functioning. The belief in self efficacy
determines to a large extent the way people think, feel, they are motivated and they behave at work.

Aim of the study. The main aim of the performed studies was to assess the relation between the sense of self-efficacy and variables
connected with occupational functioning in the group of nurses.

Material and methods. The studies were carried out among 428 people including 413 (96.5%) women and 15 (3.5%) men. The average age
of this people was 39.35 years (SD = 8.06). The youngest person was 22 and the oldest was 62. The following was used: The Generalized
Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) by Schwarzer, Jerusalem (Polish adaptation by Juczyński) used to measure the generalized sense of self-efficacy
and the Questionnaire: Stress at Work — adaptation of the abbreviated version of the Occupational Stress Indicator (OSI-2).

Results. Present study in the group of nurses confirmed earlier reports showing that the work in this profession is considered as stressful.

Conclusions. A high sense of self-efficacy is the element protecting nurses against excessive feeling of occupational stress.

Nursing Topics 2011; 19 (2): 143–147