Positive Illusions and Well-Being Revisited: Separating Fact From Fiction
by Shelley E. Taylor and Jonathon D. Brown
- Psychology
In 1988, we published an article that challenged the notion that accurate perceptions of self and the world are essential for mental health (Taylor & Brown, 1988). We argued instead that people's perceptions in these domains are positively biased and that these positive illusions promote psychological well-being. In the current article, we review our theoretical model, correct certain misconceptions in its empirical application, and address the criticisms made by Colvin and Block.