What does the term "learned helplessness" refer to in psychology?

The term "learned helplessness" refers to a psychological condition in which an individual feels they have no control over the outcomes of events in their life, particularly after experiencing situations where they were unable to change the outcome despite their efforts. This phenomenon was first identified through experiments conducted by Martin Seligman, where animals and later humans demonstrated a passive response to stressful situations when they had previously faced uncontrollable stressors.

In the context of learned helplessness, individuals may develop a belief that their actions have no impact on their circumstances, leading to feelings of powerlessness and a lack of motivation to try to improve their situation. This can contribute to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The concept highlights the importance of perceived control in mental well-being and informs therapeutic approaches that aim to empower individuals by helping them recognize and regain control over their choices and circumstances.