Title: Learned Helplessness among young adults with academic difficulties. The predictive weights of family functioning, locus of control and self-respect
Authors: Faith Nakalema (PhD), E.O., Oladunmoye (PhD), Leah Oyeyemi Oyedele (PhD)
Volume: 8
Issue: 11
Pages: 90-98
Publication Date: 2024/11/28
Abstract:
Learned helplessness among young adults facing academic difficulties can undermine their motivation, resilience, and academic success. Understanding the psychological and familial factors contributing to helplessness is essential for designing effective interventions. This study investigates the relationships between family functioning, self-esteem, locus of control, and learned helplessness among young adults in Uganda, using a correlational research design. The sample consisted of 119 young adults, who completed standardized measures with established psychometric properties for each construct. Specifically, the scales demonstrated acceptable reliability, with Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranging from 0.80 to 0.89. Multiple correlation and regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationships and predictive power of the independent variables on learned helplessness. Results indicated significant positive correlations between learned helplessness and family functioning (r = 0.30, p < 0.05), self-esteem (r = 0.28, p < 0.05), and locus of control (r = 0.24, p < 0.05). Regression analysis showed that family functioning, self-esteem, and locus of control together accounted for 12.2% of the variance in learned helplessness (Adjusted Rē = 0.122, F(3,115) = 6.479, p < 0.01). Family functioning (? = 0.241, p < 0.05) and self-esteem (? = 0.228, p < 0.05) emerged as significant predictors, while locus of control did not (? = 0.034, p > 0.05). These findings suggest that family dynamics and self-esteem play critical roles in the development of learned helplessness, with potential implications for interventions aimed at fostering resilience and academic persistence. Future research is recommended to examine additional factors, such as socio-economic challenges and mental health, to better understand learned helplessness in this context.