In Search of Realistic Optimism: Meaning, Knowledge, and Warm Fuzziness
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-2001
Keywords
role of optimism in well-being
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.56.3.250
Abstract
Is it better to be realistic or optimistic? A realistic outlook improves chances to negotiate the environment successfully, whereas an optimistic outlook places priority on feeling good. But are realistic and optimistic outlook necessarily in conflict? The author suggests that the fuzzy nature of accuracy typically places only loose boundaries on what it means to be realistic. As a result, there are many forms of optimism that do not, in principle, yield unrealistic assessments. Nevertheless, there remain numerous "optimistic biases" that do involve self-deception, or convincing oneself of desired beliefs without appropriate reality checks. The author describes several ways that realistic and unrealistic optimism can be differentiated and explore the impact of this distinction for current views of optimism. This critique reveals how positive psychology may benefit from a focus on personal meaning and knowledge as they relate to making the most of life.
Was this content written or created while at USF?
Yes
Citation / Publisher Attribution
American Psychologist, v. 56, issue 3, p. 250-263
Scholar Commons Citation
Schneider, Sandra L., "In Search of Realistic Optimism: Meaning, Knowledge, and Warm Fuzziness" (2001). Psychology Faculty Publications. 1881.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/psy_facpub/1881
