Learned helplessness.
A deeper look.
Learned helplessness is a psychological concept that refers to the behavior and attitudes of people who tend to lose a sense of control over their circumstances after repeated negative experiences.
It was first researched by psychologist Martin Seligman in the 1960s.
This phenomenon is based on the idea that people who continually experience negative events,
Especially those that they cannot control,
Tend to develop a deeply rooted belief that their actions have no impact on the outcomes.
Causes 1.
Repeated negative experiences People who have repeated negative experiences,
Whether in interpersonal relationships,
Professional situations,
Or personal challenges,
May tend to lose confidence in their ability to influence those around them.
2.
Lack of control The feeling of helplessness increases when individuals feel that they have no control over their environment or life circumstances.
This can occur in situations where actions do not produce positive change.
3.
Lack of support A lack of social support or positive reinforcement can promote the development of learned helplessness.
The lack of positive feedback can increase the feeling that one's efforts are pointless.
Characteristics of learned helplessness 1.
Internalization of failures People who experience learned helplessness tend to internally attribute failures or negative events.
They often attribute their difficulties in internal factors such as lack of skill or personal failure.
2.
Passivity and resignation A central feature is the development of passivity and resignation.
Individuals may withdraw in difficult situations and believe that their actions cannot bring about positive change.
3.
Generalization to different areas of life Learned helplessness can affect different areas of life.
When someone has experienced that effort in a particular area,
Such as work or relationships,
Does not bring results,
They tend to transfer this belief to other areas of life.
Controlling the learned helplessness 1.
Becoming aware and self-reflect The first step is to become aware of learned helplessness and practice self-reflection about how these beliefs arose.
2.
Strengthen self-efficacy Targeted strengthening of self-efficacy is crucial.
By setting and achieving small,
Achievable goals,
Confidence in your own abilities can be restored.
3.
Cognitive restructuring Changing negative thought patterns through cognitive restructuring is an important step.
This involves reassessing situations and developing a more optimistic mindset.
4.
Seek social support Sharing experiences and feelings with trusted friends,
Family or a therapist can help gain a new perspective and find support in overcoming learned helplessness.
5.
Focusing on what can be controlled Focusing on aspects of life that can be controlled can help reduce feelings of helplessness.
The identification of areas of action and the implementation of concrete measures are important.
Learned helplessness is not an insurmountable fate.
Through conscious effort,
Self-reflection and intentional strengthening of self-efficacy,
People can find ways to change these beliefs and lead more active and satisfying lives.
What is your view on the topic of learned helplessness?
Do you have an example where you experienced learned helplessness yourself?
Maybe you have a story that inspires others to overcome this learned helplessness,
To live a more healthy and conscious life.
Thank you for commenting.
Thank you for your attention.
Happy to see you again.
Take care.
