Todd is having difficulty at work and has failed to please his boss on each of the last three projects he has been assigned. He begins to feel as if there is nothing he can do to turn things around. Soon, he starts to feel there is also nothing he can do about some of the difficulties he has been having with members of his family. He starts to act withdrawn and unmotivated most of the time. Todd seems to be suffering from
A) anxiety.
B) low self-esteem.
C) low achievement motivation.
D) learned helplessness.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Todd is displaying symptoms of learned helplessness, which is a state of feeling powerless and unable to take any action to improve one's situation. His repeated failures at work have led him to believe that no matter what he does, he will not be able to improve his performance. This belief has now spilled over into his personal life, and he feels unable to resolve conflicts with his family. This sense of helplessness leads to feelings of depression and resignation, causing Todd to become withdrawn and unmotivated.

Todd Is Having Difficulty at Work and Has Failed to Please