Abstract: After summarizing hope theory proposed by Snyder, hope was then compared and contrasted with optimism, personal growth initiative, self-confidence and future orientation. Methods for measuring hope were also described. Hope was consistently related to academic achievement, human resources management, psychological and physical health, and it might have some influence on substance abuse treatment. Some evidence as well as ideas came up in recent years, which were different from Snyder. Future research should lay emphasis on problems such as the concept, cultural differences, neurobiology of hope and its applications.

Key words: hope, academic achievement, health, human resources management, substance abuse treatment