Which term refers to an individual's estimation of the level of challenge associated with a specific behavior?

The concept that refers to an individual's estimation of the level of challenge associated with a specific behavior is most accurately described by the term "self-efficacy." Self-efficacy relates to a person's belief in their own ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task. It encompasses the perception of how confident an individual feels about their capabilities to perform behaviors necessary to achieve certain outcomes. For example, if someone believes they can successfully implement a new health behavior, such as exercising regularly or quitting smoking, this higher level of self-efficacy can lead them to take action.

Perceived benefits and perceived barriers actually focus on different aspects of behavioral change. Perceived benefits refer to an individual's assessment of the positive outcomes that may result from engaging in a behavior, while perceived barriers involve the obstacles that might prevent someone from taking action. Cues to action are triggers or prompts that motivate individuals to engage in a particular behavior, but they do not address the individual's confidence in their ability to overcome challenges associated with that behavior.

Therefore, self-efficacy is the correct term, as it directly concerns one's assessment of their capabilities and the challenges they perceive in adopting new behaviors, highlighting the role of confidence and belief in the context of health-related behaviors.