What can repetitive failure in various aspects of life contribute to, according to learned helplessness theory?

Repetitive failure in different areas of life can lead to feelings of powerlessness and a belief that one's efforts will not result in positive outcomes. This phenomenon is central to learned helplessness theory, which suggests that when individuals repeatedly encounter negative situations over which they have no control, they may develop a sense of helplessness. This mindset can be a significant contributor to the onset of major depressive disorder.

In this context, individuals may become passive and stop trying to change their circumstances, leading to persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. This aligns directly with the characteristics of major depressive disorder, which is marked by a pervasive low mood and a range of cognitive and physical symptoms that can impair daily functioning.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of learned helplessness. For instance, recovery from depression, personal growth through resilience, or increased motivation contradict the established understanding of how chronic failure affects one’s psychological state according to learned helplessness theory. Instead, the theory highlights the risk of developing major depressive disorder as a likely outcome of persistent failure and perceived lack of control.