
The propensity to see the glass as half full can be an advantageous trait: optimism has been linked to benefits in both mental and physical health (e.g., Bromberger & Mathews, 1996; Scheier & Carver, 1985; Schultz et al., 1996). However, when positive expectancies are unwarranted, it might be better to adopt a more pessimistic view of the situation. In the case of gambling, statistics favor the house and over time it will almost always win. An optimistic gambler might remain at the table, convinced that the next hand will be a big winner; a gambler who sees the glass as... Read more →