What happens if you're one of those people who hope for the best but always expect the worst thing to happen?
Does that negative outlook really soften the blow if the worst comes to pass?
Researchers put those assumptions to the test by surveying over 80 students about their outlook -- good or bad -- on life. Afterward, they were given computer-based puzzles to complete, then asked how well they would perform on a second set of problems.
Not surprisingly, those who expected to do badly, and did, felt far worse than those with a better attitude who thought they would succeed but didn't.
Moreover, those who took the negative view also tried to deflect any responsibility of their poor performance, not believing the results were a reflection of their overall capabilities.
The researchers involved thought this indicated that those with a pessimistic disposition tend to be easily disturbed by failure, while those who are more optimistic are bothered less when they fail.
Nature February 3, 2006
