FTCE Physical Education K-12 Practice Test

In what type of environment does learned helplessness commonly occur?

1. Controlled environments with ample support

2. Competitive environments with high stakes

3. Environments where individuals feel a lack of control

4. Supportive environments that motivate risk-taking

The correct answer is: Environments where individuals feel a lack of control

Learned helplessness commonly occurs in environments where individuals perceive a lack of control over their circumstances. In such settings, individuals may repeatedly face adverse situations without the ability to change or escape them, leading to a sense of powerlessness. This phenomenon can result in decreased motivation and an expectation that future efforts will also be futile. When people feel that their actions do not influence outcomes, they are likely to stop trying, believing that their efforts are pointless. In contrast, environments characterized by control and support or those that encourage risk-taking are typically conducive to learning and growth. These settings foster resilience and a sense of agency, which can combat the feelings associated with learned helplessness. Therefore, the correct understanding of learned helplessness aligns with environments lacking in perceived control.