Which factors improve coping

Coping can be defined as the efforts we make to manage situations we have appraised as potentially harmful or stressful. Those who cope best are those with a battery of coping strategies who are flexible in gearing their responses to a situation. Copers generally have a positive outlook and use their skills to seek the best possible outcome. Copers are not passive and helpless. Some researchers believe that people have characteristic ways of coping, even in different sorts of situations.

Several years ago, some researchers proposed the frustration-aggression hypothesis, which states that aggression is always caused by frustration. However, frustration does sometimes lead to aggressive behavior.

Some people cope more effectively than others. Some important factors that influence coping are social support, optimism, and perceived control:. Some researchers have pointed out that people in different cultures have different kinds of perceived control.

The Western approach emphasizes the importance of primary control. While these techniques can be time-consuming, reducing your stress is necessary to improve your well-being and mental and physical health. Solution-focused techniques include the following:. If your stress levels do not decrease, it may be a good idea to talk to a therapist or your primary healthcare provider. They can help you identify ways to minimize your stress and develop nutrition and exercise plans to maintain your health as you handle your other obligations.

Through coping strategies and good self-care, you can manage your stress healthfully and avoid long-term problems. Everyone has stress in their lives, and stress levels vary depending on the day. Having healthy coping strategies in place can help you keep your stress at a manageable level. If, however, you're struggling to manage your stress, seek professional help.

A mental health provider can help you manage your stress in a healthy way. Struggling with stress? Our guide offers expert advice on how to better manage stress levels. Get it FREE when you sign up for our newsletter.

Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellMind. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. The Best Online Therapy Programs We've tried, tested and written unbiased reviews of the best online therapy programs including Talkspace, Betterhelp, and Regain.

Was this page helpful?