Study On Optimism That Will Surprise You

Michigan State University has conducted an interesting study on optimism. It is not the first work on the subject, but it is one of the most complex. Besides that, it is also one of the most surprising due to the conclusions reported.

Optimism is defined as an attitude whereby we tend to formulate a distorted evaluation of reality, emphasizing its positive or pleasant aspects. It is, therefore, a particular way of interpreting facts, which at times is innate, that is, it is part of the character, while at other times it corresponds to a philosophical position.

This optimism study was directed by Professor William Chopik and is considered the most large-scale of its kind. To carry it out, we started with a sample of 75,000 people, aged between 16 and 101, and originally from the United States, Germany and the Netherlands.

Chopik’s Optimism Study

The study aimed to measure the levels of optimism and expectations about the future of men and women at different stages of life. Common events such as marriage, divorce, a new job, death, etc. were also taken into account to determine how these events can affect the positive outlook on life.

Participants whose lives were distinguished by unusual, positive or negative events, were not considered. The study focused on a typical life model, with common successes and failures. In other words, “normal” lives that passed under manageable circumstances.

The researchers also wanted to establish whether the optimistic perception varies over the years or whether it depends in some way on age. Previous studies had reported that middle-aged people are more optimistic.

Difficult events to face

One of the surprising results of this optimism study is that tragic or difficult events do not seem to particularly affect the predisposition to see the bright side of life. Situations such as death or divorce do not significantly alter this attitude.

Apparently, most people are aware that they need to focus on the positive aspects of reality despite adversity, because that means achieving emotional balance.

Study director William Chopik pointed out that people are more resistant to adversity than they think. We tend to believe that tragic events radically change the perspective of those who experience them, but this is not the case. Research has shown that we can envision a bright future even after devastating experiences.

The age variable in the optimism study

Another interesting fact from this study on optimism concerns the relationship between this inclination and age. In general, optimism is constantly increasing from the age of 16 and up to around 70 years of age. It is a phase of life in which we look to the future with hope and illusion.

Apparently, this is due to the fact that in this long phase of life there are events of vital importance, a source of enthusiasm. New loves, the first job, new study paths, the conquest of independence, etc. Such dynamics affect growing optimism.

There is a noticeable change after the age of 70, when optimism begins to wane. Everything suggests that this depends on the feeling that most of one’s life is now over and on the worsening of health problems.

The importance of optimism

Other studies, mentioned in the course of this research, suggest that optimism is strongly associated with early life experiences. In other words, when important bonds are established that make us feel secure, a positive viewpoint about reality is activated that seems to last for a lifetime.

Finally, some data indicate that optimism and successes are self-sustaining realities. This means that optimistic people tend to achieve their goals more often; in turn, these successes serve as a reinforcement towards optimism and hope.