The Effects Of Optimism On Cancer Survival Rate - 926 Words

The previous section has shown that previous study had yielded contradictory results. To account for the inconsistent findings, we have to first understand the inner mechanisms of the effects of optimism on cancer survival rate. Salovey (2000) has proposed various potential casual pathways from dispositional optimism to cancer survival outcomes. One of the potential mediators of optimism and survival outcome might be immune system. In other words, optimism tends to enhance the immune system which in turn enhance cancer survival rate. Indeed, Ah (2007) examines the intimate connections among social support, optimism, and immune response. Ah hypothesized that optimism plays a mediating role for immune response and cancer outcome. 54 cancer patients participated in the study. They completed questionnaires regarding stress level, optimism, and satisfaction social support. Participants’ blood was assessed to measure the immune system (ex., white blood cell such as natural killer c ell. The results showed that only optimism is associated with immune response and cancer prognosis, while perceived satisfaction of social support was not associated immune response. Given that immunology mediate the relationship between optimism and cancer survival rate, it is possible that the inconsistent results of the previous studies might be accounted by mechanisms related to immunology. One possible explanation might be that previous studies looked at different types of cancer, while some typeShow MoreRelatedOptimism And Pessimism And Optimism1439 Words   |  6 PagesOptimism is a disposition or tendency to look to the more favourable side of events or conditions and to expect the most favourable condition (optimism, n.d.). Counter to optimism is pessimism which is the tendency to anticipate only bad or undesirable outcomes (pessimism, n.d.). When looking at optimism it is important to look at the opposing side to emphasis the unwelcome effects of thinking negatively in terms of wellbeing which in the long term could be detrimental to health and prosperityRead MoreThe Effect of an Optimistic Attitude on a Person’s Health1197 Words   |  5 Pagessuccess, feelings and even health. Positive thinking can be the best treatment for those, who don’t know what to do, in a problematic life situation. Optimistic attitude can help the person to live longer, recover faster from the mortal diseases like cancer and coronary heart disease, and avoid alcoholism and psychological problems(like depression). Optimistic attitude is a great way to feel better, even during bad times. 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