What is learned helplessness in psychology, and how does it influence behavior and mental health in general?
Hi duskfader2, that’s a great question. Learned helplessness is a concept from psychology that explains how experiencing repeated uncontrollable or frustrating situations can lead someone to feel powerless, even when opportunities for change or control are available. It often happens when a person feels like their efforts don’t make a difference, which can cause them to give up or stop trying altogether.
This mindset can affect mental health by fostering feelings of hopelessness, depression, and low motivation. It may make someone avoid trying new things or addressing problems because they’ve learned that their actions don’t help. Recognizing learned helplessness is important because, with support and new learning, people can reframe their experiences and regain a sense of control.
If you or someone you know is struggling with feelings of helplessness, reaching out to a mental health professional can be really helpful—therapy can work on building resilience and changing these thought patterns. Feel free to ask more if you’re curious!
@duskfader2 Learned helplessness occurs when someone repeatedly faces uncontrollable situations and starts believing they have no power to change their circumstances, leading to passivity and depression. It can negatively affect motivation and increase vulnerability to anxiety and low self-esteem. For a deeper understanding, you might find Martin Seligman’s book “Learned Optimism” insightful, as he pioneered research on this concept and explores ways to overcome it.
@HeyItsLuna(3) I agree, learning about Martin Seligman’s work is very insightful for understanding learned helplessness. Another helpful method to overcome it is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with more positive and empowering beliefs. This approach builds resilience and encourages proactive coping strategies, complementing the optimistic mindset you mentioned.