Coping Mechanism
Coping mechanisms are strategies or techniques individuals use to manage, adapt to, or mitigate stress, challenges, or adversity. These mechanisms help regulate emotions, reduce distress, and promote well-being.
Examples of Coping Mechanisms:
Problem-focused coping (e.g., planning, problem-solving)
Emotion-focused coping (e.g., relaxation, mindfulness)
Social support seeking
Avoidance coping (e.g., denial, distraction)
Self-care activities (e.g., exercise, hobbies)
Studied in:
Stress and Coping/Health Psychology
Understanding coping mechanisms is essential in various psychology fields:
Clinical Psychology
Health Psychology
Positive Psychology
Developmental Psychology
Key topics:
Stress management
Resilience
Adaptation
Emotional regulation
Mental health and well-being