Abstract

SANTOS, Laís  and  FARO, André. Optimism: theory and applicability for health. Rev. Psicol. Saúde [online]. 2020, vol.12, n.2, pp.123-139. ISSN 2177-093X.

Studies have shown that optimists have better performance in health promotion, higher quality of life, and better rates of physical and mental health. Therefore, this work aimed at presenting the conceptual aspects, the main measures used to assess optimism, and the sources of research concerning optimism, through a theoretical study. Initially, we delimited the concept of optimism, theory, and its main types. Next, we included the evidence of the relationship of optimism with health, coping, and well-being, characterizing its impact on people's health. Finally, we added work related to the maintenance or increase of levels of optimism and results. In general, optimism has been shown to positively influence psychological adjustment in different contexts. In the end, new studies were revealed based on the gaps detected in the national production on the subject.

Keywords : optimism; theory; psychology.

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