Learned Optimism shows us how to stop automatically assuming guilt, how to get out of the habit of seeing the direst possible implications in every setback, and how to be optimistic. With concrete examples, Dr Seligman documents the effects of optimism on the quality of life, provides tests to determine the degree of our negative and positive orientation, and offers a program of specific exercises to help break the habit of pessimism and learn the habit of optimism for both ourselves and our children. Learn how to: Recognize your "explanatory style" — what to say to yourself when you experience set-backs and how it influences your life. Boost your mood and your immune system with healthful thoughts. Help your children to practice the thought patterns that encourage optimism. Break the "I-give-up" habit with Dr. Seligman’s ABC techniques. Change your interior dialogue and experience the astonishing positive results.