Health Risk Perception, Optimistic Bias, and Personal Satisfaction

OBJECTIVES: To examine change in risk perception and optimistic bias concerning behavior-linked health threats and environmental health threats between adolescence and young adulthood and how these factors related to personal satisfaction. METHODS: In 1996 and 2002, 1624 adolescents responded to a mailed questionnaire. RESULTS: Adolescents showed strong positive optimistic bias concerning behaviorlinked risks, and this optimistic bias increased with age. Increase in optimistic bias over time predicted increase in personal satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: The capacity to process and perceive potential threats in a positive manner might be a valuable human ability positively influencing personal satisfaction and well-being.