The Pros And Cons Of Positive Illusions

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The way in which reality is viewed has often led psychologist to determine a particular diagnosis. Many with psychological disorders have an altered sense of reality. This has also been identified in the past as having been associated with those that display positive illusions of themselves. In this case, one has an unrealistically favorable view of their own characteristics, which may have an effect on the way they perceive reality. This may be caused by a need to increase self-esteem, or to prevent discomfort. Perceptions of positive illusions, however, have changed over time, arguing they are a part of mental health. Positive illusions are seen widely in our culture today, but is it actually a positive model to allow children to learn from, …show more content…
In the past, it has always been understood that the healthy individual views reality corresponding to what is actually there. This was first contested by Taylor and Brown in 1988, explaining through their research, individuals displaying positive illusions were happier, more caring, and more productive than those who were believed to have a clearer sense of reality. Since this first case of positive illusions being a central part of a healthy human being, many others have begun to research the idea. With this addition, the definition of a psychological well-being had to be slightly changed to include positive illusions along with happiness, ability to care for others, positive view of the self, regulating stress, and capacity for productive and creative work. Research has shown those who display positive illusions also have a higher level of all the characteristics making up the psychological well-being, leading to a more positive and fulfilling life (Young, 2014).
Positive illusions provide individuals with a more positive mindset and attitude towards the world, but the long-term effects of positive illusions have not been extensively researched. Although it is obvious to see the benefits of short term positive illusions from the many laboratory studies that have been conducted, long term optimism may lead one to difficult …show more content…
This was established through a study involving breast cancer survivors and their perspective on life. They found that many of the positive beliefs they gained from their experience with cancer were illusory, including a belief of control over the disease. In addition, a further study found comparable results for patients with HIV, AIDS, and heart diseases (Taylor, Lerner, Sherman, Sage, & McDowell, 2003). Overall, positive illusions have been associated with better hygiene, more social relationships, and less stress leading to a greater outcome for life threatening diseases such as those aforementioned. Cognitive adaptation, in this case, describes the way one can overcome the obstacles of a life-threatening disease through finding meaning in the experience. This occurs when there is a major shift in priorities, values, or perspectives in response to the experience. Many studies have found a relationship between this optimism toward the future and more positive outcomes of stressful events. In addition, those who view their prognosis realistically have a more rapid decline in health compared to those with illusory views (Taylor, Kemeny, Reed, Bower, & Gruenewald
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