Learned helplessness is a psychological condition where repeated negative events lead to a belief that effort is futile, affecting mental health and education. This text delves into its development, consequences, and interventions like cognitive restructuring and active learning to foster resilience and a sense of control.
Show More
Learned helplessness is a condition observed in both humans and animals where exposure to uncontrollable and repeated negative events leads to a state of resignation and a belief that future efforts are futile
First Formulation
This concept was first formulated by psychologists Martin Seligman and Steven Maier in 1967, following experiments with dogs that were subjected to inescapable electric shocks and subsequently did not attempt to escape when it became possible
Refinement
Since its discovery, the learned helplessness model has been refined and its relevance to human psychology has been expanded
Understanding learned helplessness is crucial in psychology as it provides insight into the etiology of various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, and informs therapeutic approaches
Learned helplessness emerges through a process where an individual experiences a series of uncontrollable negative events, leading to a perceived absence of control and ultimately to a state of passive acceptance
This self-reinforcing cycle exemplifies the manifestation of learned helplessness in educational contexts, demonstrating its potential to undermine academic performance and motivation
Learned helplessness has significant implications for mental health, as it can lead to persistent stress and contribute to the development of conditions such as depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and specific phobias
The learned helplessness model has been critiqued for its potential determinism and the limitations of animal studies in fully capturing the complexities of human emotional and cognitive processes
Critics suggest that the model may overlook the capacity for human resilience and self-determination, and caution against conflating adaptive coping mechanisms with helplessness
Recognizing the role of learned helplessness is essential for the effective treatment and understanding of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD
To mitigate the effects of learned helplessness in educational settings, teachers can implement strategies that empower students and reinforce their sense of agency
Addressing learned helplessness involves psychological interventions aimed at reshaping thought patterns and creating supportive environments
00
Definition of learned helplessness
A state where exposure to repeated negative events leads to resignation and belief that effort is futile.
01
Learned helplessness observed in
Both humans and animals, indicating a cross-species phenomenon.
02
Learned helplessness relevance in psychology
Helps understand the etiology of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, informs therapeutic approaches.
