MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 78: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 78
3. A high school student struggles consistently with math and feels that no matter how hard he studies, he "just doesn't get it." Which of the following is the most likely short-term result with respect to his ability to do math?
- A. Low self-esteem
- B. Low self-efficacy
- C. Learned helplessness
- D. External locus of control
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Because there is nothing in the question stem to suggest that this situation will fundamentally change this student's attitudes in the short term, choices (A) and (D) can be eliminated. Choice (C) is unlikely in the short term, as learned helplessness requires a repeated inability to have any effect on a situation over a long period of time and is much more severe, usually manifesting as depression. It is far more likely that the student will simply feel ineffective when it comes to math, which is low self-efficacy.