The purpose of this study was to better understand the consequences for human service workers
of beginning a new and difficult job with an "optimistic as opposed to a "realistic" perspective.
These rival perspectives regarding the effects of optimism were compared using longitudinal
data from a sample of intensive case managers newly hired to work with difficult mental health
clients. It was tentatively concluded that those case managers who had higher expectations and
hopefulness regarding their clients were largely benefited by their perspective. The findings,
however, may not generalize to less seasoned help providers.
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