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Learned Helplessness

From William Meek, for About.com

Updated: December 30, 2008

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Definition: Learned helplessness is a psychological state where people feel powerless to change their self or situation. This is primarily caused when people attribute negative things in life to internal, stable and global factors. Essentially, it means that the person feels as if change is not possible, since there is a pervasive and unchangeable personal problem. Click here for GAD treatment options.
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