What is Learned Helplessness?

The concept of "learned helplessness" refers to a set of behavioral patterns that result from stressful events. People who interpret events in a negative way tend to suffer from this disorder, as compared to people who think positively about them. Fortunately, it is possible to combat these patterns. Among the methods that can help people overcome learned helplessness are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Positive Psychology. CBT involves identifying distorted thoughts and replacing them with healthy ones, and Positive Psychology aims to promote positive feelings and improve overall well-being.

Learned helplessness may develop in a child at an early age, and it is often the result of a lack of attachment or concern from a caregiver. Children raised in orphanages, for example, frequently exhibit symptoms of learned helplessness under stressful situations. If a child has been abused or neglected in childhood, the effects can be even greater.

Learned helplessness is a psychological phenomenon that has been studied since the 1960s. It is often seen in people who complain about difficult situations and feel helpless despite their efforts. This can lead to a reduction of opportunities and reduced motivation. Psychology researchers Martin Seligman and Steven F. Maier first identified the concept of learned helplessness when they conducted experiments on dogs. In these experiments, the dogs were placed in a cage with two sides. One side was a standard cage, while the other side had an electrified floor.

Learned helplessness often affects one's self-esteem, as well as their relationships with others. Learned helplessness causes people to feel bad about themselves and doubt their own abilities. Ultimately, these feelings lead to poor self-image and depressive feelings. Despite this, therapy and changes in lifestyle may help a person overcome these feelings.

Using the SMART method to set goals is another effective way to overcome learned helplessness. The SMART method involves making specific, attainable, relevant, and realistic goals. The SMART method encourages you to use your strengths to overcome your obstacles and achieve success. Learning to be optimistic is another powerful strategy for overcoming learned helplessness.

Learning helplessness is a condition where a person feels that they have no control over events and situations. This condition may cause a person to feel like they have no control over their own experiences and discourages them from trying. This pattern of behavior can be a result of repeated exposure to negative events and aversive stimuli. But this is not always the case. The attributional style of an individual may be affected by the nature of his or her personality.

Learning helplessness often begins in childhood. When children have to study hard for school, they may feel hopeless and helpless. One study from 2004 examined the effects of learned helplessness on test taking in children. The study showed that children who were given a difficult test felt helpless, and that they doubted their own academic abilities. They also missed some easy questions, which was a clear sign of their learned helplessness.