Coping refers to the processes by which individuals attempt to manage stressful situations and their attendant negative emotions. Currently, there is no consensus as to how many types of coping strategies exist, but in general there are three overarching types: problem-focused strategies that are directed at resolving or managing the problem, emotion-focused strategies that are directed toward regulating emotional responses, and meaning-making strategies that focus on incorporating stressors within existing worldviews and/or altering worldviews to accommodate new perspectives. Strategies in all three types of coping may be behavioral or cognitive. Coping typically occurs within a social context. Individuals may directly access social support, either for tangible help in managing the problem, assistance in emotional regulation, or for general advice, or engage in dyadic coping. The outcome of individuals’ coping efforts affects not only their own well-being but also that of others,...
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© 2013 Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht
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Aldwin, C.M., Levenson, M.R. (2013). Coping. In: Runehov, A.L.C., Oviedo, L. (eds) Encyclopedia of Sciences and Religions. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-8265-8_200064
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-8265-8_200064
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