Abstract

This study explored the effect of restricting participants’ agentic choice on their levels of optimism. This study used the pre-test, post-test design to investigate the impact of non-agentic choice in meaningful scenarios on feelings of optimism. 147 participants completed a measure of optimism, were assigned to conditions of simulated choice, and were instructed to freely write about their decisions. The association between personality traits and optimism was also explored. Study findings showed that assigning participants to restrictive and agentic conditions had no effect on optimism. However, a significant negative correlation trait neuroticism and optimism was found. Content analyses run on the responses found that the most common themes, in order, were seeking change in employment, seeking support from family and friends, and public assistance. Additional research, with a larger sample, should be completed to more fully determine the nature of the relationship among these variables.

Thesis Completion

2020

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

White, Grace

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Degree Program

Psychology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-1-2020

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Included in

Psychology Commons

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