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Learned helplessness is primarily caused by:
Failure to respond to treatment
Previous exposure to events over which a patient had no control
Environmental factors and stressors
Genetic predisposition to mental health issues
The correct answer is: Previous exposure to events over which a patient had no control
Learned helplessness is a psychological condition in which an individual comes to believe that they are unable to change or control their circumstances, often leading to passive behavior and a lack of effort in trying to improve their situation. This phenomenon is primarily caused by previous exposure to uncontrollable events, meaning that individuals who have faced multiple situations where their actions did not alter the outcome may generalize this experience to new situations. B is correct because it highlights that the foundational aspect of learned helplessness is this history of exposure to control-lessness. When a person repeatedly experiences negative outcomes despite their efforts, they may eventually stop trying, believing that their actions will make no difference, regardless of the current situation. This can manifest not only in psychological symptoms but also in physiological responses, affecting the individual’s overall well-being and hindering recovery or rehabilitation. Understanding learned helplessness is crucial in rehabilitation nursing, as recognizing this mindset allows for tailored interventions that can help patients regain a sense of control and empowerment over their recovery process. By encouraging small successes and fostering a supportive environment, rehabilitation nurses can help combat feelings of helplessness in their patients, leading to improved outcomes.