Optimism

Optimism is a mental attitude or world view that interprets situations and events as being best (optimized), meaning that in some way for factors that may not be fully comprehended, the present moment is in an optimum state. The concept is typically extended to include the attitude of hope for future conditions unfolding as optimal as well. The more broad concept of optimism is a disposition or tendency to look on the more favorable side of events or conditions and to expect the most favorable outcome.

Definition

The term optimism derives from the Latin word optimus, meaning "best". Being optimistic, in the typical sense of the word, ultimately means one expects the best possible outcome from any given situation. This is usually referred to in psychology as dispositional optimism. Researchers sometimes operationalize the term differently depending on their research, however, Martin Seligman and his fellow researchers define it in terms of explanatory style, which is based on the way one explains life events. As for any trait characteristic, there are several ways to evaluate optimism, such as various forms of the Life Orientation Test, for the original definition of optimism, or the Attributional Style Questionnaire designed to test optimism in terms of explanatory style.

Psychological theories

There are a number of theories about the origins of optimism, including dispositional theories and evolutionary theories.

Dispositional theories

Dispositional optimism and pessimism are typically assessed by asking people whether they expect future outcomes to be beneficial or negative. The LOT-R assesses dispositional optimism – expecting positive or negative outcomes, and is the revised version of the original Life Orientation Test (LOT).

Evolutionary theories

Optimism may be linked to health. Optimists are more likely to engage in active problem-focused coping and to interpret stressful events in more positive ways, reducing worry and ruminative thoughts. Optimism has been shown to explain between 5–10% of the variation in the likelihood of developing some health conditions (coronary heart disease, stroke, depression), possibly via its role in promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Health effects

Optimism has been shown to explain between 5–10% of the variation in the likelihood of developing some health conditions (coronary heart disease, stroke, depression), possibly via its role in promoting a healthy lifestyle. It is also related to the way an individual copes with stress. Optimistic individuals are often characterized as being happier, healthier, and more successful in comparison to those who are less optimistic.

See also

• Pessimism
• Realism (philosophy)
• Positive psychology
• Positive thinking
• Hope
• Self-efficacy

References

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