Both texts presented deal with positive psychology and its controversial effects on people subject to their psychological peculiarities. While the first passage approaches the issue from an evolutionary standpoint, the second one calls into question its one-size-fits-all concept.
To be more specific, positive thinking – that is an idea of self-persuasive focusing on the bright side of life – is what lies in the basis of this domain. By thinking positively, it suggests, people are likely to translate their positive frame of mind into positive actions, thus ensuring their fulfilling life. Longevity and better coping strategies of these people are also attributed to their attitude and optimistic perspective, which in turn affects the general well-being of the whole society.
However, positive psychology is oftentimes perceived as a mere autosuggestive trick coercing one into believing that everything goes right. This is what I can partially agree with, as on the one hand, our mindset predetermines a half of further success. On the other hand, positive outlook backed with no action, in all probability, will get you to nowhere.
In the words of the author of the second extract, positive psychology cannot be inherently suitable for everyone. To illustrate, she mentions the term of so-called “defensive pessimists”, for whom the effects of optimistic attitude may be ineffective, if not emotionally deleterious. Strange though as it may seem, but only being preoccupied with the forthcoming challenges can they cope with the stress experienced and get more resilient in the face of adversity. Thus, forcing into optimistic viewpoint, does not make it possible for them to thrive in life.
Be that as it may, a growing interest in positive psychology over the years proves to be beneficial, skepticism notwithstanding. So does defensive pessimism, then again, depending upon whom it is applied to. That is why claiming which of them best fits one’s life is pointless, to say the least.
313 words