The Neural Basis of Optimism and Pessimism

Abstract

Our survival and wellness require a balance between optimism and pessimism. Undue pessimism makes life miserable; however, excessive optimism can lead to dangerously risky behaviors. A review and synthesis of the literature on the neurophysiology subserving these two worldviews suggests that optimism and pessimism are differentially associated with the two cerebral hemispheres. High self-esteem, a cheerful attitude that tends to look at the positive aspects of a given situation, as well as an optimistic belief in a bright future are associated with physiological activity in the left-hemisphere (LH). In contrast, a gloomy viewpoint, an inclination to focus on the negative part and exaggerate its significance, low self-esteem as well as a pessimistic view on what the future holds are interlinked with neurophysiological processes in the right-hemisphere (RH). This hemispheric asymmetry in mediating optimistic and pessimistic outlooks is rooted in several biological and functional differences between the two hemispheres. The RH mediation of a watchful and inhibitive mode weaves a sense of insecurity that generates and supports pessimistic thought patterns. Conversely, the LH mediation of an active mode and the positive feedback it receives through its motor dexterity breed a sense of confidence in one's ability to manage life's challenges, and optimism about the future.

White matter microstructure in youth with and at risk for bipolar disorder

“…Surprisingly, difficulties regulating negative emotions were also associated with increased FA in the left ATR. The left hemisphere has been primarily associated with the approach of positive stimuli, which will likely elicit positive emotions, while the right hemisphere is more involved in inhibiting actions that may lead to negative emotions . As episodes of elated and depressed mood characterize BD, one might speculate that this lateralization might play a role in the switches between mood states.…”

The optimistic brain: Trait optimism mediates the influence of resting‐state brain activity and connectivity on anxiety in late adolescence

“…In addition, we found that only right OFC but not left OFC was associated with trait optimism. A longstanding literature has suggested dichotomous lateralization in the PFC as a function of either approach/avoidance motivation or emotional valence, with the left PFC being related to approach tendency and positive affect, and the right PFC to avoidance tendency and negative affect (e.g., Harmon‐Jones, Gable, & Peterson, ; Hecht, ; Heller, Nitschke, & Miller, ). However, the findings from many recent studies are inconsistent with this traditional hypothesis (see Miller et al, , a systematic review).…”

Transcranial direct current stimulation based on quantitative electroencephalogram combining positive psychotherapy for major depression

“…This is indirectly related to reduce vigilance against threatening stimuli which help in relieving the symptoms of depression [11]. Furthermore, psychological characteristics such as high self-esteem, the ability of looking at the positive aspects of incidents, as well as an optimistic belief in a bright future are associated with physiological activity in the left-hemisphere (LH) [40], which is hypoactive in depressed patients.…”