In his learned optimism theory,Seligman (2011) emphasizes which factor in explaining whether or not a person becomes an optimist?

A) thinking patterns regarding future events that are displayed by significant role models
B) reinforcement value of negative and positive events experienced
C) habitual ways of explaining why events occur in one's life
D) thinking patterns regarding current events that are displayed by significant role models

Seligman's theory of learned optimism focuses on the individual's habitual ways of explaining events in their life, known as their explanatory style. This includes the three dimensions of permanence, pervasiveness, and personalization. The belief that negative events are permanent, pervasive, and personal leads to a pessimistic explanatory style, while the belief that negative events are temporary, specific, and external leads to an optimistic explanatory style. Therefore, Seligman emphasizes the role of explanatory style in determining whether or not a person becomes an optimist.