Conference proceeding
De-Ridder,
D.T.D, Theunissen, N.C.M., (2002) The role of optimistic
beliefs in making health action plans. Presentation at the Dutch Conference on Psychology & Health, Rolduc, Kerkrade, 13-15 May 2002.
Abstract
Research
regarding the role of optimism in health behavior is not conclusive about
its assumed beneficial effects. While there are indications that the impact
of optimism on health behavior may relate to the typical conceptualization
of optimism (e.g. whether or not ourealistic), there is also debate about
the role of optimism relating to the stage of health behavior. Generally
distinguishing between the stages of making intentions to perform health
behavior (motivational stage) and implementing intentions (volitional
stage), most studies consider optimism beneficial during the motivational
stage. Finding regarding the role of optimism during the volitional stage
are mixed, however. Some studies provide support for the idea that optimism
is especially beneficial during the stage of implementing behavior (assuming
that an exaggerated perception of one’s possibilities contributes
to actual performance of health behavior), while othes maintain that optimism
leads to biased perception and thus to neglect of necessary behavioral
changes. The present study was designed to test the assumption of a differential
effect of optimism depending on the stage of health behavior. In an experimental
design (n=140) hypertensive patients were motivated by their GP (acting
according to the experimental protocol) to consider both their intentions
(by discussing their beliefs on adherence) and their implementation intentions
(by making action plans regarding adherence). We tested whether compared
to the control condition this manipulation resulted in increased motivation
and increased implementation intentions and whether optimism played a
crucial role in it.
Keywords
optimism, health behavior, action plan, motivation, behavioral change, hypertension,