Learned Mastery vs Learned Helplessness
Teaching the Mastery Concept

 

For most parents, a primary hope and desire is for their child to become a responsible, contributing member of society. In order for this to occur it is up to the parent/s to teach their child how to become a self-reliant, independent, and thinking individual. At the same time the child needs to know how to honor boundaries, know their limits, and have an overall respect for life.

With this core base most children will develop the self confidence they need to tackle any endeavor of their choosing.....knowing they can be successful. At Crossroads Institute we call this Learned Mastery.

In the field of psychology, Dr. Seligman (1975) explored a concept call "Learned Helplessness". It is a belief that one has no control over their situations. Many people operate under the belief that they lack the talent to improve their lot in life. We call this an "I can't do" attitude. Unfortunately, for children they learn this behavior from their peers, authority figures or even their parents.

Within Crossroads Institute's Learning Center we encourage children to go beyond this behavior or learned helplessness. We use proven methods of instruction known as Mastery Transfer Techniques. These techniques are designed to develop an "I can do" attitude in your child. They are taught to master whatever endeavor they choose.

Once your child is enrolled in the program, your child's progress is monitored and re-assessed by:

• Creating goals that are attainable in order to ensure that the child is aware of the progress they are making.
• Offering positive feedback and affirmation for changes and progress made.
• Including the child in the program by making sure they know they reach their goals and they do the program.
• Offering proper support so the child learns to be motivated about their program and has the desire to be a part of the change.
• Establishing strategies to support the parents with the use of parent-child behavioral management skills specific to the child's needs.
• Teaching them how to stretch the challenge in order to "go for more".
• Re-assessing your child's progress and their overall improvement.

Based upon the results of each re-assessment the program is modified and new goals are set.