The following text is about psychology.
Learned helplessness describes a condition where individuals stop trying to escape negative situations after repeated failures. Psychologist Martin Seligman discovered the phenomenon when dogs who had experienced uncontrollable shocks later failed to escape shocks they could have avoided. This research has informed understanding of depression: people who feel they have no control may stop attempting positive change. However, Seligman's later work showed that learned helplessness can be overcome through experiences of control and success.
What main point does the text make about learned helplessness?
It only affects animals, not humans
It can develop through loss of control but can also be overcome
It is a permanent condition that cannot be changed
It makes people more motivated to succeed
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text describes how helplessness develops (repeated failures, loss of control) AND notes it "can be overcome through experiences of control and success."
- Evidence: Develops from lack of control; can be overcome.
- Reasoning: Both development and recovery are described.
- Conclusion: Learned helplessness is reversible.
Choice A is incorrect because depression in humans is connected to the phenomenon. Choice C is incorrect because it "can be overcome." Choice D is incorrect because it makes people stop trying.