In an experiment, two groups of dogs are given shocks to their feet. One group is able to escape the shocks by jumping over a barrier. The second group is harnessed and cannot escape. After several trials, both groups are put in situations where they can escape. The first group escapes the shocks, but the second group just sits and whines, refusing to attempt to escape. The response of the second group is due to ________.
A) response generalization
B) learned helplessness
C) latent learning
D) contingency blocking

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The second group's response is consistent with the phenomenon of learned helplessness, which occurs when an individual is exposed to a negative or aversive stimulus that is essentially uncontrollable. Over time, the individual learns that their actions have no effect on the stimulus, and they become helpless and cease trying to escape or avoid the stimulus. This is likely what happened with the second group of dogs, who learned through earlier trials that they could not escape the shocks and subsequently failed to attempt escape in the later trials.

In an Experiment, Two Groups of Dogs Are Given Shocks