Researcher Julie Norem found that a strategy called "defensive pessimism" is characteristically associated with people who tend to be more anxious than others. "Defensive pessimism" causes these people to _____.
A) harness their anxiety in ways that help them achieve higher performance
B) be paralyzed in the face of anxiety
C) worry less about the details
D) be less prepared than others

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

"Defensive pessimism" is a strategy where people expect the worst-case scenario, which harnesses their anxiety in ways that help them achieve higher performance. They use their anxiety to prepare themselves for the worst possible outcome and come up with plans to overcome it.

Researcher Julie Norem Found That a Strategy Called "Defensive Pessimism