What is the difference between optimistic explanatory style and pessimistic explanatory style?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Optimistic explanatory style involves seeing bad events as transient (temporary) and external (caused by external factors beyond one's control) while pessimistic explanatory style involves seeing bad events as stable (permanent) and global (affecting many areas of one's life). For example, if someone fails a test, an optimist may attribute the failure to a temporary setback such as not studying enough, while a pessimist may attribute the failure to a permanent personal flaw such as not being smart enough.

What Is the Difference Between Optimistic Explanatory Style and Pessimistic