Final answer:
In the context of Learned Helplessness, 'Stability' is defined as the tendency to perceive the causes of negative events as permanent and unchanging, contributing to a sense of powerlessness and potential depression.
Step-by-step explanation:
In psychological terms, stability in the context of Learned Helplessness is a dimension of attribution that refers to the perceived permanence of the circumstances that result in a given outcome. When talking about stability, we refer to whether these circumstances are seen as changeable or unchangeable. Specifically, it is D) The tendency to perceive negative events as permanent and unchanging. In learned helplessness, this pertains to the belief, often resulting from repeated failure or a sense of lack of control, that negative circumstances won't change regardless of one's actions or efforts.
The concept is closely linked to the more extensive formulations around attribution theory and learned helplessness, advanced by researchers such as Martin Seligman. According to their findings, individuals who make stable attributions for negative events believe that the causes are permanent and not susceptible to change. This perception can lead to feelings of helplessness and potentially to conditions such as depression if applied across various aspects of one's life.