Optimism definition psychology These forms of optimism bias need to be distinguished from dispositional optimism. 02001. Such positive expectations are associated with higher levels of subjective well-being, better physical health, and a higher quality and quantity of social relationships. e. This chapter's purpose is to investigate how dispositional optimism develops, what factors influence it, and how these factors influence people's lives Optimism bias describes people's tendency to overestimate their likelihood to experience positive events and underestimate their likelihood to experience negative events in the future. bad) things will happen to oneself. (1991). optimism; lat. ” Source: Wikipedia. Researchers have investigated unrealistic optimism for more than 30 years, yielding on average 21 articles published per year. New York, NY: Pocket Books. Jun 28, 2012 · Optimism is invaluable for the meaningful life. com 1. So, the next time you find yourself donning those rose-colored glasses, take a moment to appreciate the complex psychology at play. learned optimism. It is derived from the Latin optimum (‘best’). The optimism construct thus connects to decades of theory and research on human motives and how they become expressed in behavior. Optimism may significantly influence mental and physical well-being by the promotion of a healthy lifestyle as well as by adaptive behaviours and cognitive responses, associated with greater flexibility, problem-solving capacity and a more efficient elaboration of negative information. Share button. See full list on verywellmind. May 8, 2023 · “Dispositional optimism is a generalized expectation about your future,” says Suzanne C. It is a form of self-deception that can lead to unrealistic expectations and poor decision-making. Positive illusions help us maintain self-esteem and avoid discomfort, at least in the short term. As a result of this paradigm shift, Seligman wrote a book focused on the psychology of learned optimism. Optimism calls for increased resilience and coping strategies. Optimism is the habit of believing that good things will happen in the future. Optimism has received subst antial attention within the field of psychology. Nov 17, 2023 · Optimism bias is a cognitive bias that causes people to believe that they are less likely to experience a negative event (or events) than others. The document explores how optimism can improve mental health and relationships by giving one energy and making efforts feel worthwhile. Aug 15, 2019 · Optimism can be learned through cognitive restructuring by challenging negative thoughts and focusing on facts. However, both blind optimism and positive thinking have significant drawbacks. (1982) is based on the explanatory style definition of optimism. Questions remain about optimism as a research topic and more generally as a societal optimism definition psychology professional 1 However, as seen in Tom’s case, there are large costs to the optimism bias in our personal and professional lives. Optimism bias can exist when developing and communicating prognosis. This bias is well described among oncologists (Lamont and Christakis, 1999). UC Riverside’s Sonja Lyubomirsky distinguishes between three types of optimism: Big optimism: The broad feeling that things are going well, and this is a good time to be alive. 3. the outlook that things occur for the best and that individual's hopes or goals will eventually be satisfied. Mar 31, 2025 · Definition 2: “Positive psychology is the branch of psychology that uses scientific understanding and effective intervention to aid in the achievement of a satisfactory life, rather than merely treating mental illness. [3] Theories of optimism include dispositional models and models of explanatory style. Jan 1, 2009 · The field of positive psychology at the subjective level is about positive subjective experience: well-being and satisfaction (past); flow, joy, the sensual pleasures, and happiness (present); and Jul 31, 2024 · Learned optimism is very much a positive psychology concept; it’s the opposite of learned helplessness: a phenomenon whereby individuals believe they are incapable of changing their circumstances after repeatedly experiencing a stressful event (Abramson, Seligman, & Teasdale, 1978; Seligman & Garber, 1980; Maier & Seligman, 2016). Optimistic individuals are overall healthy – both physically and emotionally. In the academic world, optimism can be defined as “the extent to which people hold generalized favorable expectancies for their future” (Carver et al. Little optimism: Optimism about specific, day-to-day circumstances – you’ll pass the test or the bus will be on time. optimism. You may be surprised to learn that psychology researchers have actually studied the concept of optimism and how it relates to well-being for several decades. Optimism as a trait is also studied in positive psychology, and appears as the VIA Strength of Hope and Optimism. A positive outlook helps people to accept themselves unconditionally. An investigation of current validity between two optimism/pessimism questionnaires: The Life Orientation Test-Revised and the Optimism/ Pessimism Scale Mar 15, 2021 · My take on Learned Optimism: Learned optimism is a way to become a more positive seeker in your life. This positive psychology concept is attributed to Martin Seligman (founder of Positive Psychology) who wrote “Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life” which was Jan 1, 2024 · Optimism (vs. Sep 4, 2017 · Radical Optimism hopes to balance this out. Optimists tend to cope with adversity actively Optimism is an individual difference variable that reflects the extent to which people hold generalized favorable expectancies for their future. It was not always so: there have been times when optimism was not merely considered worthy of rational argument, but was widely accepted by Mar 13, 2014 · Optimism is a cognitive construct (expectancies regarding future outcomes) that also relates to motivation: optimistic people exert effort, whereas pessimistic people disengage from effort. Mar 19, 2025 · Blind optimism and positive thinking are two types of thinking that are often confused with learned optimism. It is also known as unrealistic optimism or comparative optimism. We are interested in whether cognitive states that are unrealistically optimistic are belief states, whether they are false, and whether they are epistemically irrational. Segerstrom, PhD, MPH, a professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, who studies Dispositional optimism is a stable personality trait characterized by general positive expectations that influence motivated action. 3389/fpsyg. Definition of optimism in the Definitions. Clearly, optimism versus pessimism is not black and white. 1 Dispositional Optimism. Optimism, the theory, in philosophy, that the world is the best of all possible worlds or, in ethics, that life is worth living. It is a mental state or a mindset that believes that there is hope in the future and that that hope in the future gives them Dec 16, 2022 · Learned optimism is the process of recognizing and challenging pessimistic thoughts in order to develop more positive behaviors. Optimism is directly associated with reduced depression, anxiety, and stress. Optimism (vs. Hope and optimism Jun 1, 2014 · Optimism is a cognitive construct (expectancies regarding future outcomes) that also relates to motivation: optimistic people exert effort, whereas pessimistic people disengage from effort. Within the palliative oncology literature, a physician's estimate of survival tends to be incorrect by a factor of two in the optimistic direction (Parkes, 1972; Evans and McCarthy, 1985; Forster and Lynn, 1988; Maltoni et al. Realistic optimism comes to us from the scientific field of positive psychology. ” This idea stands against learned helplessness. the bottom line on optimism. Scheier and Carver first discussed the concept of optimism in their theory of self-regulation, where it was conceptualized to be a personality dimension. Apr 19, 2018 · A trusted reference in the field of psychology, offering more than 25,000 clear and authoritative entries. Druică E, Musso F, Rodica Ianole-Călin. P. Martin Seligman, a key figure in positive psychology, introduced the concept of “learned optimism. [1] Autistic people are less susceptible to this kind of Sep 15, 2024 · Excessive Optimism in Psychology: Definition, Causes, and Implications offers further insights into striking this delicate balance. With a firm belief in a positive future you can throw yourself into the service of that which is larger than you are. Synonyms for optimism. The American Psychological Association (APA) offers a succinct description: “Psychology is the study of mind and behavior. Mar 7, 2016 · Optimism is expecting good things to occur in your life. Apr 28, 2021 · Similarly, unrealistic optimism (versus realistic optimism) when health is deteriorating was associated with a 313% higher death rate. A Web of Knowledge database count of the five most common related terms (i. Writing about emotional experiences as a therapeutic process. ” Sep 15, 2024 · As research in optimism psychology continues to evolve, future directions may include exploring how optimism interacts with other personality traits, investigating its role in different life domains (like work, relationships, and health), and developing more nuanced interventions to cultivate healthy optimism across diverse populations. In this article, we review the definitions, leading measures, adaptive In his riveting memoir, The Hope Circuit: A Psychologist’s Journey from Helplessness to Optimism, Seligman described how he battled a recalcitrant psychology establishment, captured the presidency of the American Psychological Association, attracted like-minded associates, and built an empire of learned optimism, creating dozens of studies Oct 8, 2020 · Optimism (vs. Apr 25, 2024 · Author/coach Brad Stulberg draws from Frankl in offering the following definition in his fascinating book, Master of Change: “Tragic optimism is the ability to maintain hope and find meaning in Jan 27, 2023 · What is optimism bias? Optimism bias (or unrealistic optimism) is a type of unconscious cognitive bias. I. , unrealistic optimism, comparative optimism, optimistic bias, optimism bias, and illusion of invulnerability) reveals 984 published papers Aug 26, 2011 · It may be beyond the scope of this volume, much less this chapter, to review the individual studies that link dispositional optimism to more positive and less negative affect, less psychopathology (e. Apr 7, 2023 · World’s Largest Positive Psychology Resource. [2] As a trait, it fosters resilience in the face of stress. A judgemental bias that tends to affect people's subjective estimates of the likelihood of future events in their lives, causing them to overestimate the likelihood of positive or desirable events and to underestimate the likelihood of negative or undesirable events. 2020;11. pessimism) is a dimension of personality defined by the expectation that good (vs. . , 1994). Mar 17, 2011 · Optimism and pessimism aren’t just accidents; this evidence suggests they are two different, but effective, strategies of coping with a complex and unpredictable world. Optimism is expecting good things to occur in your life. Optimism. This concept in psychology aims to help people find new ways to manage tough situations and improve their overall well-being. May 5, 2020 · Over time the concept of attributional and explanatory styles evolved into a comprehensive theoretical framework, becoming a major research paradigm within psychology with a bearing on individuals’ propensity towards optimism or pessimism and in turn, subsequent positive or negative mental states and outcomes. Defining psychology is a nuanced endeavor, as it involves capturing the intricacies of the human mind and behavior within a concise framework. In this way, it seems that psychologists have done a good job of capturing what we ordinarily mean by “optimism. It’s a way of looking at the world that gives more agency to the optimist as being at least partly responsible when life is Nov 1, 2010 · Optimism is an individual difference variable that reflects the extent to which people hold generalized favorable expectancies for their future. Optimists are people who anticipate positive outcomes, whether serendipitously or through perseverance and effort, and who are confident of attaining desired goals. Seligman went on to become the president of the American Psychological Association, elected by the largest vote in the APA's history. Bibliography. net dictionary. Updated monthly. The philosophical view may involve theodicy, whereas the ethical theory spread with atheistic philosophies in the 20th century. While toxic positivity is harmful, it’s important not to swing too far in the opposite direction. Optimistic people experience less People tend to display a remarkable propensity toward excessive optimism, predicting futures that are often quite unrealistically positive. It involves focusing on the bright side of life and believing that good things will happen, even in the face of adversity. Dec 15, 2023 · Realistic Optimism and Having a Growth Mindset While realistic optimism is a form of positive thinking, it is radically different from what most people think of as positive thinking. In addition, the scientific field of positive psychology has discovered that positive emotions and optimism are correlated with reduced depression and death from heart attacks, and increased attention, creative thinking, positive moods, perseverance, success, marital satisfaction, and physical health. Martin Seligman’s Learned Optimism is used in an intervention for a depressed elderly patient named Sigmund Freud. 10. hopefulness: the attitude that good things will happen and that people’s wishes or aims will ultimately be fulfilled. Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life was followed by Authentic Happiness and Flourish, which was among best psychology and philosophy books of 2011. ” Optimismus [engl. Mar 10, 2025 · Definition of optimism. Optimism is a cognitive construct (expectancies regarding future outcomes) that also relates to motivation: optimistic people exert effort, whereas pessimistic people disengage from effort. It is all about unlearning habits that pessimism feeds on (like negative self-talk or self-sabotaging) and replacing them by learning optimism-promoting habits (like positive self-talk and self-validation). , 2010). Psychology Definition. The term "optimism" refers to an emotional and psychological perspective on life. It involves recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns, then replacing them with more realistic and optimistic perspectives Here are a few more articles that may help you learn more about positive psychology. E. Meaning of optimism. Does the Coronavirus Epidemic Take Advantage of Human Optimism Bias? Frontiers in Psychology. It reflects a belief that future conditions will work out for the best. We also ask to what extent unrealistically optimistic cognitive states are fixed. Optimism can be inborn, or it can be learned. Excessive Positivity. und physischen Gesundheit über direkte und indirekte Mechanismen förderlich ist. This is a 10-item scale developed by Scheier and Carver in 1985. The OPS was developed from the assumption that separate tendencies regarding optimism and pessimism should be Furthermore, “optimism” is used not only to describe an explanatory style, but especially colloquially it is used to describe the “half-full” glass person, who – it is often implied – was born this way. Key Aspects of Learned Optimism: This phenomenon of 'optimism bias' has long puzzled researchers because of its paradoxical nature; by definition the probabilities of random events (negative or positive) are equal for everyone. Optimism is an individual difference variable that reflects the extent to which people hold generalized favorable expectancies for their future. In contrast with learned helplessness , optimism is learned by consciously challenging any negative self talk . It is a positive frame of mind and means that a person takes the view of expecting the best outcome from any given situation. Sep 1, 2009 · It notes that optimism is a conscious selective focus on the positive aspects of one's present situation or the future. Optimism is expecting good things to occur in one's life. This is usually referred to in psychology as dispositional optimism. Generally, positive thinking highlights the benefits of an optimistic outlook when experiencing a problem. Updated on 04/19/2018. , a grade at the end of a college course). Nov 1, 2010 · Optimism is a cognitive construct (expectancies regarding future outcomes) that also relates to motivation: optimistic people exert effort, whereas pessimistic people disengage from effort. #Optimism definition psychology full# Optimism, coping and health: Assessment and implications of generalized outcome expectancies. Such an optimistic outlook on the future can enhance their motivation to engage in self-relevant and difficult situations and make it more likely to obtain rewards. Optimism-Pessimism Scale Another measure that might be used is the Optimism-Pessimism Scale, or OPS (Dember, Martin, Hummer, Howe, & Melton, 1989). Jan 1, 2012 · Hope and optimism are positive motivational states, both of which involve the expectation of desired outcomes in the future. It is grounded in modern neuroscience and supported by rigorous research. This also encompasses being less to being more optimistic. Information and translations of optimism in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. This grounding in expectations links optimism and pessimism to a long tradition of expectancy–value models of motivation. It is common and transcends gender, ethnicity, nationality, and age. It suggests people can train their minds to expect positive outcomes. What does pessimistic mean in the context of psychology? Like ''optimism,'' the word ''pessimism'' has its roots in Latin: it comes from the word pessimus, or worst optimism n. g. optimum das Beste], [GES, PER], personale Ressourcenvariable, die der psych. Pantheon/Random House; 2011. Definition 3: “Positive psychology studies what makes life most worth living. It’s a way of looking at the world that gives more agency to the optimist as being at least partly responsible when life is Optimism doesn’t mean engaging in wishful or fantastic thinking. (2011). Study of optimism began largely in health contexts, finding Recent theoretical discussions of optimism as an inherent aspect of human nature converge with empirical investigations of optimism as an individual difference to show that optimism can be a highly beneficial psychological characteristic linked to good mood, perseverance, achievement, and physical health. P. it helps Jul 30, 2009 · Abstract. Optimism bias or optimistic bias is a cognitive bias that causes someone to believe that they themselves are less likely to experience a negative event. , controlling for previo … Apr 1, 2017 · On the latter definition, people’s risk assessment is unrealistically positive when compared to an objective criterion, such as an actuarial risk assessment or actual outcomes (e. Optimism doesn’t mean engaging in wishful or fantastic thinking. Learned optimism is being able to shift one’s thinking from a negative to a positive perspective. Definition All fluent English speakers probably think they know what optimism means—expecting things to go well; believing that everything will work out for the best. Seligman, Martin E. It’s like optimism on steroids – pumped up, exaggerated, and potentially dangerous. Bottemanne H, O Morlaàs, Fossati P, Schmidt L. 2020. It is a generalized characteristic that pertains to the person’s entire set of life experiences, rather than to just one domain or another, one activity or another, or one episode or another. Sep 15, 2024 · Learned optimism, as Seligman explains, is a skill. Definitions of optimism and pessimism rest on people’s expectations for the future. Sometimes, our one-size-fits-all positivity becomes extreme optimism. Excessive Optimism in Psychology: Definition, Causes, and Implications examines the nuances between healthy optimism and unrealistic positive expectations. It’s a way of looking at the world that gives more agency to the optimist as being at least partly responsible when life is Nov 22, 2021 · The Life Orientation Test (LOT) is one method to measure the original definition of optimism developed within a theoretical system. But interestingly, when I waded into the social psychology scholarly literature The term "optimism" refers to an emotional and psychological perspective on life. Basic definitions of optimism. This forced false positivity is often called toxic positivity (Ehrenreich, 2009). Optimistic outlook is predictive of positive health outcomes, resilience, and relationship satisfaction. Optimism bias represents overly optimistic Jul 14, 2024 · Optimism is one of the most important concepts in positive psychology. Mar 5, 2025 · What is optimism? A concise definition of optimism is the tendency to have hope and confidence about future outcomes. Optimists tend to look for meaning in adversity, which can make them more Apr 19, 2018 · A trusted reference in the field of psychology, offering more than 25,000 clear and authoritative entries. Therapists often incorporate techniques from learned optimism into cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), helping patients reframe negative thought patterns and develop more resilient mindsets. And this is one definition of optimism among psychologists, but not the only one (see section five). It contrasts optimism with pessimism, which tends to see the worst outcomes. Optimism: Definition, Examples, and Tips for Being More Optimistic; Think Positive: 16 Simple Ways to Start Thinking Positive 90 Things to Be Thankful For; Positivity: The Psychology, Definition, and Examples Feb 8, 2023 · Optimism is a built-in trait or personality disposition. The benefits of optimism are partially attributable to the manner in which optimists and pessimists cope with adversity. Optimism helps buffer the negative effects of physical illness and is associated with better health outcomes in general. This questionnaire created by Peterson et al. Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life. Here we consider the nature of unrealistic optimism and other related positive illusions. Feb 26, 2017 · These definitions, too, seem to imply that optimism subsumes hope and is the bigger, more encompassing construct. Methods to measure optimism have been developed within Optimism is a positive attitude or outlook on life that has been linked to numerous positive outcomes. Many optimism synonyms also describe the beauty of this attitude. Seligman, M. The benefits of being an optimist seem to outweigh the disadvantages by far. His work helped inspire the rise of positive psychology. “The best positive psychology resource out there!” Apr 7, 2013 · Psychology Definition of OPTIMISM: noun. It’s a way of looking at the world that gives more agency to the optimist as being at least partly responsible when life is Jan 15, 2024 · A New Direction in Psychology . Researchers have documented this unrealistic optimism in over a thousand studies and for a diverse array of undesirable events including diseases, natural disasters, and a host of other events ranging from unwanted pregnancies and home radon contamination Optimism bias. Generalized optimism pertains to the person’s entire life, rather than to just one domain or another. This paper provides an overview of optimism, including its definition, measurement, impact on health and well-being, and factors contributing to Optimism doesn’t mean engaging in wishful or fantastic thinking. , depression), higher life satisfaction, more adaptive coping with and resistance to stress, more positive and long-lasting relationships, and so on. doi: 10. Based on the classic and recent empirical literature Optimism is a mental attitude characterized by a positive outlook and expectations of favorable outcomes. Carver (1985) and Optimism as an Explanatory Style by Seligman (1990). ” Sep 15, 2024 · Excessive optimism, in the realm of psychology, refers to an unrealistically favorable outlook on future events or outcomes. 100% Science-based. Later Nov 21, 2023 · Optimism Defined. Learned optimism was introduced by psychologist Martin Seligman, who is considered the father of the positive psychology movement. Dec 14, 2023 · The Optimism Bias: A Tour of the Irrationally Positive Brain. An optimistic person is one who sees the glass as 'half-full' instead of 'half-empty'. Higher levels of optimism have been related prospectively to better subjective well-being in times of Jan 1, 2020 · 'Optimism' published in 'Encyclopedia of Personality and Individual Differences' The most influential theoretical framework of optimism is the self-regulatory model of dispositional optimism proposed by Scheier and Carver in which human activity is explained in terms of goal regulation. When confronted with obstacles in achieving a desired future state, those who are optimistic anticipate positive outcomes from their actions. The problem with blind optimism Sep 14, 2024 · The Fine Line: Optimism vs. theoretical models to optimism: Dispositional Optimism Model by Scheier and . Jan 26, 2022 · Positive psychology is a field of psychology asking about the highest good in life (or "life worth living") and effective ways of pursuing this good. We’ll go over blind optimism and positive thinking below and then relay why learned optimism is a more effective strategy. While optimism has benefits, too much can lead to unrealistic optimism and poor risk assessment. Maintaining optimism involves disputing pessimistic thoughts, being present, practicing gratitude, and caring for one's health. There is room for realism in this equation; realistic optimism serves a protective function by allowing a person to remain optimistic while accepting Learned optimism is the idea in positive psychology that a talent for joy, like any other, can be cultivated. , controlling for previous well-being). FEEDBACK: Jul 10, 2021 · The Positive Psychology Toolkit© is a groundbreaking practitioner resource containing over 500 science-based exercises, activities, interventions, questionnaires, and assessments created by experts using the latest positive psychology research. Optimism is not regarded as intellectually respectable. Research consistently supports that most of the population (estimated around 80%) exhibit an optimistic bias that arises in a variety of circumstances. Definition of Learned Optimism: Learned Optimism is a psychological concept developed by Martin Seligman that refers to the ability to cultivate and maintain an optimistic outlook on life through the acquisition of cognitive skills and positive thinking strategies. Optimism can be defined by hope and confidence. Such positive expectations are associated with higher subjective well-being, even under conditions of stress or adversity. Nov 21, 2023 · Pessimistic Definition. Martin Seligman Ted talk on positive psychology. And when academics in other fields discuss optimism, they tend to use similar definitions, often borrowing (or slightly amending) from psychology. It refers to an unrealistically favorable attitude that people have towards themselves and people that are close to them. In philosophy, optimism is a doctrine stating that this world is the best of all possible worlds. Higher levels of optimism have been related prospectively to better subjective well-being in times of adversity or difficulty (i. What researchers agree is that optimism is good for your health, success, and happiness. Nonetheless, the optimism bias is assumed to exist, despite its irrationality, due to its beneficial and self-serving properties - i. Examples:Health Risks: People often underestimate their own likelihood of experiencing serious health problems, like heart disease or cancer, while 2 days ago · "unrealistic optimism" published on by null. The Positive Psychology Toolkit© is a groundbreaking practitioner resource containing over 500 science-based exercises, activities, interventions, questionnaires, and assessments created by experts using the latest positive psychology research. Study of optimism began largely in health contexts, finding positive associations between optimism and markers of better psychological and physical health. It lists six positive and negative events ("you have been looking for a job unsuccessfully for some time"), and asks the respondents to record a possible cause for the event and rate the internality, stability, and globality of the On the latter definition, people’s risk assessment is unrealistically positive when compared to an objective criterion, such as an actuarial risk assessment or actual outcomes (e. In psychology levels of optimism Sep 15, 2024 · In clinical psychology and therapy, learned optimism has become a valuable tool in treating depression and anxiety. pgmyx uovsbv gaylc ubutshe grvnerz ezyd jzvy lmjzi pldaxd axgx lsrsqhrn twibpgk lxf gqhmij pwqg