Definition: Optimists have a positive explanatory style, or positive way of explaining events in their lives. Optimists explain positive events as having happened because of them (internal). They also see them as evidence that more positive things will happen in the future (stable), and in other areas of their lives (global). Conversely, they see negative events as not being their fault (external). They also see them as being flukes (isolated) that have nothing to do with other areas of their lives or future events (local). For example, if an optimist gets a promotion, she will likely believe it’s because she’s good at her job (internal), and will receive more benefits and promotion in the future (global and stable). If she’s passed over for the promotion, it’s likely because she was having an off-month (local and unstable) because of extenuating circumstances (external), but will do better in the future.
Also Known As: Positive Explanatory Style
