What are the two main categories of coping strategies?

The two main categories of coping strategies are problem-focused coping and emotion-focused coping.

Problem-focused coping involves actively addressing the stressor to reduce or eliminate the source of stress. This can include problem-solving, seeking information, and taking direct action to manage challenges or obstacles. For instance, if someone is facing a deadline at work, they might break down their tasks into smaller, manageable steps to effectively tackle the situation.

Emotion-focused coping, on the other hand, aims to manage the emotional distress associated with a stressful situation rather than changing the situation itself. This could involve strategies such as seeking social support, reframing the situation, or using relaxation techniques to help manage feelings of anxiety or sadness.

Both types of coping are essential in managing stress effectively. While they serve different purposes, they can be used in conjunction to enhance an individual’s ability to cope with stressors in a balanced way.