Pessimism is a fundamental part of the human experience. Researchers say refusing to subscribe entirely to the social drive for the pursuit of happiness and embracing your pessimistic side may be the most reasonable attitude.
Pessimistic people are more likely to die earlier from cardiovascular disease and other causes, but not from cancer than those who have a more optimistic outlook on life. However, optimists did not have a greater than average life expectancy.
Researchers shed light on the role the caudate nucleus plays in pessimism. The study reports stimulating this area of the brain generates a negative outlook that clouds decision making.
Researchers reveal how being pessimistic may be beneficial for performance, confidence and health.
Researchers report a strong working memory can counter a pessimistic outlook.
