Module 11
Explanatory Style
An individual’s explanatory style is the general way in which the individual interprets daily events and consequences. There are two basic styles
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Mastery Orientation – Learned Helplessness
It is important to remember that these two style exist on a continuum, not a dichotomy. Therefore, individuals are not exclusively one or the other, but tend to a certain style in most situations.
Mastery Orientation: These individuals attribute accomplishments to their own abilities and efforts.
"I can do it!"
Learned Helplessness: These individuals attribute their success to outside and uncontrollable factors and believe that failure reflects a lack of ability.
"I can’t do it!"
Jerry
Jerry is an enthusiastic, energetic learner. He enjoys working hard at school activities and takes obvious pleasure in doing well. He is always looking for a challenge and especially likes to solve the "brain teaser" problems that his teacher assigns as extra credit work for the day. He can’t always solve the problems, but he takes failure in stride and is eager to try the problem the following day.
Jason
Jason is an anxious, fidgety student. He doesn’t seem to have much confidence in his ability to accomplish school tasks effectively. In fact, he is always underestimating what he can do; even when he has succeeded, he doubts that he can do it again. He seems to prefer filling out drill-and-practice worksheets that help him practice skills he’s already mastered rather than attempting new tasks and problems. As for those daily brain teasers, he sometimes takes a stab at them, but he gives up quickly if the answer isn’t readily apparent.
Mastery vs Helpless
Mastery oriented students tend to:
1) have higher self esteem and self-efficacy
2) set high goals for themself
3) prefer new, challenging tasks
4) strive for success
5) believe prior success indicates ability
6) accurately estimate prior success
7) view failure as a challenge
8) persist in the face of adversity
9) increase their effort following failure
10) take pride in their accomplishments
11) performs and achieves at a higher level than others of similar ability
