The balanced states of mind model: Optimal cognitive balance and the consequences of excess positivity

The Balanced States of Mind model (BSOM; Schwartz, 1995) posits that people strive to maintain a balance between positive and negative thoughts and affects. According to this model, the optimal state of mind (SOM) is characterized by a specific ratio of positive to positive plus negative cognitions [P/P+N)], with deviations from this ratio resulting in varying levels of pathology. The model differentiates functional from dysfunctional SOM's, and distinguishes between normal balance of positive and negative thoughts, optimal balance, and excess positivity. Research on repressive coping styles (e.g., G. Schwartz, 1990; Weinberger, 1990) supports the BSOM's prediction that excess positivity may have negative consequences. While some people are undoubtedly as positive as they report, others may achieve high levels of positive thinking through the repression of negative experiences. Previous research has found that repressors are characterized by poorer psychological and physiological functioning as compared to nonrepressors. Applying this paradigm to the BSOM model suggests that people characterized by highly positive SOMs may actually include two subtypes, namely True Positive Thinkers (i.e., high SOM, low defensive people) and Repressors (i.e., high SOM, high defensive people). It follows that True Positive Thinkers and Repressors should differ on a variety of indices measuring psychological and physiological adaptation. This study aimed to provide a test of the BSOM model by exploring the relationship between psychological functioning and the quantitative parameters hypothesized to differentiate functional from dysfunctional individuals. A second objective of this project was to compare True Positive Thinkers with Repressors on psychological, behavioral, and physiological measures. 72 volunteers with highly positive SOM ratios (M = .85) completed a battery of questionnaires, a series of role-plays, and a thought-listing task. Salivary cortisol and heart rate data were also collected. Results support a linear relationship between SOM ratios and psychological adaptation. Findings did not evidence significant differences between Repressors and True Positive Thinkers across indices of psychological, behavioral, or physiological functioning. Implications for the BSOM model and for the measurement of SOM ratios are discussed.