Introduction

The definition of ‘learned helplessness’ is based on behavioural psychology and is highly relevant in helping us better understand ourselves, our communities and wider democratic society. This brief ‘Explainer’ outlines what learned helplessness is, why it’s important to identify it, and what we can do, to take back control of our lives (and our cities).

In the 1890’s there was a famous experiment called Pavlov’s dogs. Briefly, laboratory dogs were repeatedly fed simultaneously with the sound of a ringing bell. Pavlov observed the dogs later salivated on hearing the bell, without any food being presented. This is called classical conditioning and is the basis of learning theories that people use when training a puppy or educating grand/children. For example, we recognise the power of classical conditioning when using treats for positive reinforcement and ‘naughty steps’ for discipline.

An American psychologist, Seligman, further developed classical conditioning, by using experiments such as electrical shocks on dogs. He coined the term ‘learned helplessness’ to describe some dogs which, after experiencing multiple electrical shocks, became defeatist. Some dogs gave up seeking an escape and stayed-put to suffer the pain anyway, even when escape was easily available for them. Later, similar experiments were conducted on humans, using loud noises. Seligman concluded that past experiences may produce extreme and long-lasting changes in our behaviour, that may appear irrational to observers. In a similar way, farm stock and dogs may avoid fences that look like an electric fence, even if not live, if they have previously experienced being shocked by one.

Image: ‘Electric Fence’ Thomas Booker (CoderThomasB), CCO 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The concept of learned helplessness could explain why some individuals accept and remain passive in negative situations, despite their obvious ability to change those situations and create positive outcomes. On an individual level, learned helplessness could help explain mental health difficulties, including low self-esteem, domestic violence, obesity, prejudice, poor parenting skills, low academic achievement, drug or alcohol addiction. These behaviours can be very frustrating and heartbreaking to witness. This same concept can be applied to local politics too, as explained below.

Unlearning bad habits

On a community level, learned helplessness thwarts engagement in important public consultations; from contacting our local counsellor with constructive feedback; or even casting a vote at a local or general elections. We think ‘what’s the point’? We assume our actions won’t change the outcomes, so in a self-fulfilling prophecy, it’s because of our apathy and lack of action, the opportunity for positive change is lost. Importantly, as more power is gained by those in authority, it becomes increasingly difficult to regain community engagement, and so the negative cycle continues.

Imagine if everyone in our city thought it was a waste of time getting involved with any civic or sports group, campaign or ‘working bee’ because of learned helplessness? If we can’t be bothered to participate, our democracy and community cohesion could soon fall apart.

Critics of Seligman’s theory argue learned helplessness is too general and oversimplifies the challenges, biases and complexities of individual’s lives. But we know through experience how those who passionately believe they will succeed often do achieve their goals, despite the challenges life throws at them. And this fact is evidenced in numerous psycho-social experiments.

Our Locus of Control

Developing this idea further, social psychologist Rotter explored the concept of learned helplessness with a personality quiz, called the ‘Locus of Control’. By answering a series of questions that ask the individual to reflect on how much control they feel they have over their lives, an assessment can be made about the degree of any learned helplessness.

(Questions adapted from Rotter’s original study)

Outcomes from Rotter’s experiments using his personality quiz, underscored the importance of believing we do have control of our lives. Rotter called this an Internal Locus of Control. It is this belief, not other circumstances, that becomes the single most important factor in determining outcomes and ultimately achieving fulfilling lives.

For instance, research suggests that adopting an active and positive mindset, helps people become more resilient when faced with stressful events. Those with a high degree of Internal Locus of Control tend to live healthier lives in general; they may exercise more, follow a more nutritious diet, and avoid unhealthy addictions. That is not to say these individuals dismiss personal negative experiences, but that they accept them as external ‘interference’, rather than factors that define who they are.

Of course, outcomes from Rotter’s quiz are not black and white and are likely to change for individuals over time. However, understanding the impact of learned helplessness and identifying unhelpful attitudes that we may see in ourselves, may help us to address those negative thoughts and change towards a more positive outlook. When we realise we can escape negative situations, we could all help each other overcome our learned helplessness. Our society could benefit enormously in lots of ways, if we take back control. As the below image illustrates:

Rotter’s Theory illustrated.  U3198823, CC BY-SA 4.0 creative commons via Wikimedia Commons

Conclusion

Identifying learned helplessness in ourselves and making changes is not easy. Solutions to some problems may initially seem insurmountable. It takes practice and commitment to turn around cycles of negative thoughts. However, as a meme recently doing the rounds on social media points out:

“Choose your hard, because:

• Marriage is hard. Divorce is hard. Choose your hard.
• Obesity is hard. Being fit is hard. Choose your hard.
• Being in debt is hard. Being financially disciplined is hard. Choose your hard.
• Communicating is hard. Not communicating is hard. Choose your hard.

Life will never be easy. It will always be hard. But we can choose our hard. Pick wisely.”

Will you choose to be passive, or will you choose to identify any learned helplessness?

Together we can all help make positive changes happen, in our own life and in our city’s communities.