Understanding Coping Incidents and Growth Processes of Girls with Learned Helplessness in Middle School Physical Education

PURPOSE This study identifies girls with learned helplessness in middle school physical education coping mechanism and growth process. METHODS Eight female 9th graders who previously experienced learned helplessness in physical education were purposely selected with their physical education teachers’ recommendation. After individual in-depth interviews, data were analyzed using inducted data analysis. RESULTS Findings show that the girls could overcome learned helplessness through their own will and with support of peers and physical education teachers. Moreover, they have undergone various growth processes after coping with learned helplessness. Recently, they have self-confidence in physical education classes and desire to learn physical education. Additionally, results showed that the girls’ learning will in physical education influenced other subject matters, which helped them overcome new challenges in their school and daily lives. CONCLUSIONS Results can be used as practical guidelines to develop educational programs and create policies for girls with learned helplessness.