When Optimism Is Unrealistic
When Optimism Is Unrealistic
But despite clearly understanding the purpose, and limits, of early-phase trials, the patients were also blinded by what researchers called an “unrealistic optimism,” or an optimistic bias, when it came to applying that knowledge to their own particular situations. A majority of patients assumed that the experimental drugs would control their cancer and that they would experience benefits but not complications.
In essence, they believed they would fare better than the average patient enrolled in the same trial.
NY Times 3/3/11
How We Age – PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL ISSUES
For young people, time seems to have no end. But, as time passes we suddenly realize that the number of remaining years is limited. The realization that we are growing old can be traumatic. Our ideas about and attitudes toward aging are very important in how well we cope with and enjoy the passing years.
http://www.healthinaging.org/agingintheknow/chapters_ch_trial.asp?ch=3
