Learned Helplessness

A psychological condition in which a person comes to believe they are unable to perform tasks or control outcomes, often resulting from prolonged over-assistance or lack of opportunity to attempt tasks independently. In disability contexts, learned helplessness can develop when caregivers, educators, or support systems consistently complete tasks for a person with a disability rather than allowing them to try, struggle, and succeed on their own. Teachers of visually impaired students identify reducing learned helplessness as a primary educational goal, encouraging parents to scale back assistance so children can build confidence and independence through real practice.