According to a scoping review published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology, higher levels of optimism and lower levels of pessimism are generally linked to better health outcomes in children and adolescents, regardless of whether they have chronic health conditions.
The study looked at different health areas, such as substance use, diet, exercise, sexual health, following medical advice, subjective health (how they feel about their health), pain, sleep, and oral health. It found that optimism was linked to lower rates of substance use and a reduced risk of heart and metabolic problems.
Findings also indicated that higher levels of optimism led to more effective coping when faced with challenges. This means that optimistic kids and teens are more likely to take proactive steps for their health and seek support.
The research helps us see that a person's attitude can influence their physical health. Parents and caregivers who know this may feel empowered to support their child or teen’s emotional well-being.
Understanding the Research
The current study uses a scoping review to provide a broad overview of the link between optimism, pessimism, and physical health behaviors in young people.
The studies included in the review had a wide range of sample sizes, with as few as 20 participants and as many as 79,960. Here are more details:
- Most of the studies focused on teenagers.
- The gender distribution included both male and female participants.
- Most of the samples came from community or school settings, but nearly one-third were taken from medical environments — they involved patients with conditions like cancer, chronic pain, diabetes, HIV, heart disease, and cystic fibrosis.
- All studies relied on reports from the young people themselves, except for one study that included ratings of optimism from their parents, and their doctors.
Based on the results, most studies found that having a more positive outlook in life likely resulted in better health outcomes. Additional findings on higher optimism were as follows:
- Generally linked to lower lifetime substance use (like alcohol, cigarettes, and cannabis) and reduced intention to use these substances
- Correlates with healthier diets and more physical activity
- Associated with safer sexual practices
- Associated with a healthier body mass index (BMI) and improved metabolic markers, but some studies did not find a significant connection between optimism and blood pressure or physical fitness levels
- Lower pain levels in certain populations but have mixed findings regarding sleep quality
The findings also mention how social experiences and friends can affect how optimistic or pessimistic young people feel.
Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers
How can you help your child or teen feel more optimistic and emotionally healthy? Here are some tips:
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Share how you cope with challenges. The way young people handle difficult situations can influence their attitude and mindset. One way to demonstrate a positive outlook in your own life is by modeling healthy coping strategies. For example, you might talk about how you manage stress after a long day at work. It could be taking a walk to clear your mind, deep breathing, or engaging in an enjoyable hobby.
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Use CBT techniques. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be an effective tool for catching thoughts that lead to pessimism. With CBT, kids begin to understand how their perceptions can impact their emotions and actions. Once they identify these thoughts, they can reframe them. Here’s a simple activity to practice changing negative thoughts to positive thoughts.
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Promote healthy lifestyle choices. Encourage regular physical activity and nutritious meals. These healthy habits can increase happy hormones and energy levels. As young people experience the benefits, they create a positive feedback loop that makes them more committed to these practices.
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Teach youth about optimism. Optimism can be taught, practiced, and learned. The more we have discussions with young people about the development of an optimistic attitude, the greater their chances of increasing this practice in their daily life. Feel free to pass along this All About Optimism handout to provide simple tips to develop an optimistic mindset.
The researchers also noted that more studies should be done to understand how optimism and pessimism affect health over time, especially in children and teenagers.
For additional mental health resources, visit the Mental Health Center Kids’ Worksheet Collection.
