In a famous study, Seligman and his colleagues trained dogs that a tone predicated an inescapable shock. When the dogs were put into a situation where they could avoid the shock simply by moving to a "safe zone" they would simply lie down and receive the shock. This phenomenon is called ___________.
A) masochism
B) learned helplessness
C) a pessimistic response pattern
D) negative affectivity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The situation described is an example of learned helplessness, where the dogs have learned that they cannot escape or avoid the shock and have given up trying. Masochism, pessimistic response patterns, and negative affectivity are not applicable in this context.

In a Famous Study, Seligman and His Colleagues Trained Dogs