Revised Life Orientation Test (LOT-R)

The Life Orientation Test was revised to improve its ability to distinguish between optimism and other factors, such as trait anxiety, and to refine the measurement of generalized optimism versus pessimism. This revision enhanced the test’s clarity and precision in assessing an individual’s life orientation.

The LOT-R test consists of 10 items, with 6 directly related to optimism and pessimism and 4 filler items. Responses are scored on a scale of 0 to 4, and the total score is calculated to reflect the individual's level of dispositional optimism.

The Life Orientation Test is designed to assess an individual's general expectations of positive or negative outcomes, providing insights into their overall life orientation. It is used in psychological and medical settings to understand how optimism or pessimism impacts mental and physical health.