Capítulo 1. Optimismo: Rasgo del carácter saludable y factor de protección

Limited scientific publications on optimism and hope, as well as its expression and correlates in Venezuelan samples, justified its approach in studies linked to the line of research called Psychological Wellbeing and its relationship with affective bonds, emotional intelligence,
motivation towards forgiveness, optimistic attributional style and hope, in adolescents and adults, from Prof. Pura Zavarce Armas (Universidad Metropolitana de Caracas). The purpose of the chapter is oriented towards defining the conceptualization from the cognitive-behavioral perspective and the lasting well-being model proposed by Positive Psychology, highlighting the relevant correlates that confirm their influence on psychopathological and mental health variables. Likewise, present the findings on its manifestation in Venezuelan adults contributed by two investigations with a quantitative approach, non-experimental and transactional-descriptive design. The results first show a predominance of the Pessimistic Attributional Style, especially in young people, where Personalization has the greatest contribution, identifying self-esteem as an area of attention. Secondly, high Hope is evidenced, due to the non-permanent and persistent nature of the causes of negative events, which is related to the perception of personal control space in the face of adverse circumstances. It is confirmed that optimism and hope positively influence positive affect and psychological well-being, making them protective and preventive factors for mental health, especially in transits or adverse situations