A estrutura psicológica do otimismo: os dois lados da moeda

Abstract

The optimism bias has a great theoretical and practical significance, however, remains underapplied in clinical practice. Despite this apparent disinterest, optimism may be considered the most significant cognitive bias, since it implies important consequences both positive and negative. The main objective of this literature review article is to establish a theoretical reflection about the psychological structure of optimism, discussing the advantages and disadvantages, starting from its principles and fundamentals. An extensive bibliographic search was performed in the APA PsycNet and SAGE databases using the keywords "optimism", "optimism bias" and "positive psychology". The discussion is driven by results of several studies conducted in the field of optimism published in top journals of psychology. The result is a solid reflection on the practical implications of optimism bias and its power to influence people's lives. Optimism has a great potential of contribution for psychology in order to offering people a positive outlook for the future.