Optimism and pessimism as partially independent constructs: Relationship to positive and negative affectivity and psychological well-being

Using weighted least-squares confirmatory factor analysis, support was found for the bi-dimensionality of optimism and pessimism defined as positive and negative outcome expectancies, thus, replicating previous findings (Chang, D'Zurilla & Maydeu-Olivares, 1994; Marshall et al., 1992). In addition, support was also found for the discriminant validity and utility of employing separate measures of optimism and pessimism for predicting individual differences in measures of life satisfaction and depressive symptoms. Moreover, significant predictive relations with these criterion measures were found even after controlling for the influence of positive and negative affectivity. Implications regarding the present findings for future research on optimism and pessimism are discussed.