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Exploring the Relationships Between Object Relations/Reality Testing Functioning, Coping Styles, and Somatic Tension

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Abstract

In view of the importance of coping and of the apparent impact of individual differences on coping styles, it seems appropriate to examine relationships of coping with deeper and more complex psychological constructs such as those described in object relations psychology. Discovery of psychological predispositions to coping should have significant implications for both organizational and interpersonal intervention mechanisms. This study examined the relationships among six object relations/reality testing constructs and the coping styles of positive thinking coping, interpersonal coping, avoidance coping, direct action coping, and symptom-management coping, as well as somatic tension. Several significant relationships were evidenced. Implications and suggestions for future research are presented.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Wisconsin, USA

    Bruce Mills & Ramon J. Aldag

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  1. Bruce Mills
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  2. Ramon J. Aldag
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Mills, B., Aldag, R.J. Exploring the Relationships Between Object Relations/Reality Testing Functioning, Coping Styles, and Somatic Tension. Journal of Business and Psychology 14, 5–24 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022944600019

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