The Role of Optimism in Reducing Psychological Distress Amongst Women in Urban Areas

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Year : 2025 | Volume : 02 | 02 | Page :
    By

    Hanisha Garg,

  1. Student, Department of Applied Psychology, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

This paper aims to explore the role of optimism in reducing psychological distress among women living in urban areas. Psychological distress, encompassing anxiety, depression, and chronic stress, has become increasingly prevalent due to the fast-paced and demanding nature of urban life. Women, in particular, face unique stressors including work-life imbalances, financial pressures, safety concerns, and societal expectations, which contribute significantly to elevated levels of mental strain. Finding healthy coping strategies is essential for fostering mental health as urbanization continues to change lifestyles. The study adopted a quantitative research methodology, using standardized psychological scales to measure levels of optimism and psychological distress among a sample of urban women. Statistical analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between optimism and psychological distress, indicating that higher levels of optimism are associated with lower levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. The findings draw upon theoretical perspectives such as Positive Psychology Theory, which emphasizes the role of optimism in fostering emotional well-being, Resilience Theory, which illustrates how optimistic individuals better navigate adversity, and Cognitive Appraisal Theory, which explains how optimistic appraisal of stressors leads to more adaptive coping. In conclusion, the study highlights optimism as a key protective factor against psychological distress and underscores the need for interventions that cultivate optimistic thinking in urban women to enhance their mental health and resilience in high-stress environments.

Keywords: Optimism, Psychological distress, Urban women , Mental well-being, Urbanization and stress, Community Based Approach

How to cite this article:
Hanisha Garg. The Role of Optimism in Reducing Psychological Distress Amongst Women in Urban Areas. International Journal of Trends in Humanities. 2025; 02(02):-.
How to cite this URL:
Hanisha Garg. The Role of Optimism in Reducing Psychological Distress Amongst Women in Urban Areas. International Journal of Trends in Humanities. 2025; 02(02):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijth/article=2025/view=226019


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 02
02
Received 12/06/2025
Accepted 13/08/2025
Published 10/09/2025
Publication Time 90 Days



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