Abhishek Venugopal, Aswin Eldho Raju and Sandhyarani Moirangthem
Mizoram University, Mizorzm
Pages:41-54
Ego defence mechanism is the defensive strategy used unconsciously by the self
(Ego) to protect oneself from the anxiety provoking situation, whereas learned
helplessness is defined as the unwillingness to accept and endure unpleasant stimuli
even when it is avoidable (Seligman & Maier, 1967). This study is an attempt to
understand the relationship between ego defence mechanism and learned helplessness
in late adolescents age group using quantitative research design. Samples were drawn
using a purposive sampling method comprising 225 higher secondary students
(Male=125; Female=100) between 15 to 18 years of age. Two scales, namely ego
defence mechanism questionnaire by Andrews et al. (1993) and learned helplessness
scale by Quinless & Nelson (1988) were used to measure ego defence mechanism
and learned helplessness respectively. Statistical analysis of the research data revealed
a negative correlation between learned helplessness and healthy (mature) ego defence
mechanism whereas learned helplessness was found to have a weak positive correlation
with unhealthy (neurotic and immature) ego defence mechanism. Furthermore, there
was a significant difference in ego defence mechanisms and learned helplessness
based on gender (male and female), socio-economic status (above and below poverty
line), and type of family (joint and nuclear family