Final answer:
A 'defensive pessimist' refers to an individual who anticipates potential obstacles or failures and prepares strategies to manage them effectively, which can sometimes lead to better performance and resilience.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to a hardy, resistant portrayal of the self during encounters with failure is defensive pessimist. A defensive pessimist prepares for the worst to create strategies that help manage anxiety and lead to positive outcomes. This concept contrasts with optimistic outlooks where individuals maintain a positive expectation regardless of circumstances, and directly aligns with the idea that expecting and preparing for difficulty can sometimes result in better performance and resilience.