Question

How would you integrate the concept of problem-focused coping and emotion-focused coping into the process of making a decision? What should you do first, second, and third to cope with stress?

Answer 1

Problem focused coping tries to identify the situation that causes stress and tackles it in a practical way by taking off or at least reducing the stressor. Emotion focused coping tries to regulate the negative emotional responses during a stressful situation. Both the techniques help one make better decisions during the time of stressful events.

One could identify the root cause of the problem in order to overcome it. For example, if someone gets up late thus reaching the class late and that resulting in the professor not permitting one in the classroom, one needs to wake up early. If one has the habit of postponing things and ending up in low marks because of late submission of assignments, they need to complete the tasks in hand on time.

One could direct their emotions in a positive way thus keeping them stress free such as talking about their emotions to someone who could counsel and support them or write all their experiences and behaviors during those behaviors.

In order to cope with stress, firstly, I would organize myself better. Organizing myself means being on time, doing things on time, writing down important events and dates, getting help from whoever possible.

Secondly, I would maintain a very good relationship with people because most of the time drift in relationship causes more stress than anything else. So, by creating a win/win situation and maintaining very good relationship, I will be able to cope with stressful situation.

Thirdly, I would take things easy and think positively by focusing on my strength. This will help me remain resilient. Most of the time, it’s negative thoughts that puts one down.