Learned helplessness is a psychological condition in which a person or animal learns to believe that they have no control over their situation, even when they do. This often happens after experiencing repeated failures or setbacks. It was first studied by psychologists Martin Seligman and Steven Maier in the 1960s through experiments with dogs. They found that when the dogs were repeatedly exposed to unavoidable shocks, they eventually stopped trying to escape–even when they later had the opportunity to avoid the shocks. They had “learned” that nothing they did could change the outcome.
In simple terms, learned helplessness occurs when someone believes that no matter what they do, they cannot change their circumstances. As a result, they stop trying to improve their situation, even when solutions are available. For instance, a student who consistently receives poor grades may stop putting in effort, believing that nothing they do will improve their academic performance, even when opportunities for extra help exist.
The dangers of learned helplessness are profound. When individuals feel helpless, they are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. They may give up on their goals, relationships, or personal development because they believe their efforts are pointless. This mindset can also extend to larger societal issues. For example, someone who feels that they have no power to affect change in their community or political system may disengage entirely, contributing to apathy and disempowerment on a larger scale.
One of the most harmful aspects of learned helplessness is that it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. By believing that no effort will make a difference, individuals stop trying, which only reinforces their belief that they are powerless. This vicious cycle can be difficult to break without intervention, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps individuals challenge and reframe their beliefs about control and capability.
As Seligman once said, “Failure leads to helplessness only if you believe it is permanent, pervasive, and personal.” Learning to recognize that failure is temporary and that one’s actions can indeed make a difference is key to overcoming learned helplessness.