In 1976, Langer and Rodin conducted studies in nursing homes. They found that when people were placed in situations where they lost a sense of control there were detrimental effects to their health. These residents learned to be helpless. However, when residents were given an opportunity to care for a plant, their sense of helplessness decreased.

Think of other situations in which feeling a lack of control can be detrimental to one's health. What suggestions could you make to help this person feel a greater sense of control?