Self-regulation of bitterness across the lifespan

Abstract

In this chapter, we address some of the psychological processes involved in the experience of bitterness. In particular, we discuss how goal failure can elicit feelings of bitterness and influence a person's subjective well-being and physical health. In addition, we explore the role played by control attributions in the experience of bitterness and the importance of adaptive self-regulation for preventing the adverse consequences of bitterness on a person's quality of life. Finally, we consider how bitterness may be experienced in the context of age-related increases of challenge and failure across the adult lifespan. © 2011 Springer-Verlag Vienna.