Bamford (2009) observed individual differences in preschoolers’ levels of optimism which is defined as “the general expectancy that things will turn out for the best” (p.668). Individual differences in a related construct, hope, have also been observed in this age group (Bamford & Lagattuta, 2012). The current study was designed to investigate the influence of preschoolers’ levels of optimism and hope on their reactions to a challenging physical task. Currently, 40 preschoolers (mean age = four years, five months) have predicted their performance on a ball throwing task, performed the task, assessed their emotional state before and after performing the task, and completed two questionnaires measuring their levels of optimism and hope. Children’s predictions were overconfident. They predicted that they would successfully throw more balls into the basket than they actual could. Children’s overall emotional states before and after performing the task were quite positive.
| Presenter: | Elizabeth Morgan (Undergraduate Student) |
|---|---|
| Topic: | Psychology |
| Location: | 216 Hartwell |
| Time: | 9:20 am (Session I) Please note that presentation times are approximate. If you are interested in attending sessions with multiple presentations, please be in the room at the start of the session. |
Collaborative Training Dinner
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