Uncertainty of outcomes, prediction of failure, and lack of control as factors explaining perceived helplessness

Author(s): Nickels, J. B., Gural, D. M.

Journal/Book: J Soc Behav Pers. 1997; 12: PO Box 37, Corte Madera, CA 94976. Select Press. 611-630.

Abstract: The present study investigated various explanations of perceived helplessness: (I) uncertainty of outcomes, (2) prediction of failure , and (3) lack of control, as well as two combinations (1 + 3, and 2 + 3). To reduce the rime spent listening to aversive noise, 240 university students chose the positioning of 24 cards in a card-reader. Different positions produced the same outcome (either time reduction or no-time reduction) for some cards. Different positions produced different outcomes for other cards, The percentage of different outcome cards (allowing participants to make a difference in outcomes) defined control at 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%. Some participants received many time reductions (predicted success), others few time reductions (predicted failure). Still others did not know how many time reductions they received (unprediction). No participant under any condition knew what card position was associated with which outcome at the time of card positioning. Participants indicated on two items their perceived helplessness in controlling and predicting the duration of aversive noise. Prediction of failure and lack of control explanations were fully supported, but uncertainty of outcomes only partially so. Implications for helplessness measures and the independence of control and prediction are discussed.

Note: Article Cramer KM, Univ Saskatchewan, Dept Psychol, 154 Arts Bldg, 9 Campus Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A5, CANADA

Keyword(s): LEARNED HELPLESSNESS; UNSOLVABLE PROBLEMS; POOR PERFORMANCE; DIATHESIS STRESS; CONTEXTUAL FEAR; SEX-DIFFERENCES; LIFE EVENTS; DEPRESSION; JUDGMENT; FEEDBACK

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