Combating learned helplessness: Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often present with symptoms of learned helplessness, a psychological condition in which the existence of repeated failure results in the belief that one’s actions have no effect on circumstances (Gacek et al., 2017; Hersh et al., 1996). As individuals with IDD age, symptoms of learned helplessness can hinder independence, interfere with well-being, and reduce opportunities for housing and employment. Using peer mentoring, self-advocacy instruction, and goal-setting practice can be an effective therapeutic approach to combat learned helplessness and increase self-determination in young adults with IDD (Dickerson, 2021; Schwartz et al., 2021).