1. Coping with Stress

2. Situation May remain stable or change over time Appraise situation Assess Resources, environmental constraints Choose Coping strategy Implement strategy Evaluate results Maintain Strategy didn’t work Reappraise Get new strageby It works!

3.  Problem focused ◦ Dealing with the stressor itself  Quitting an impossible job  Doing homework early  Leaving abusive partner  Emotion focused (handle the emotions)  Go to movies, drinking, social support  Relaxation exercises

4.  Emotion focused coping ◦ Avoidance (drowning in your sorrows) ◦ Proactive coping (studying for an exam) Research (Ursin & ERison) found that people benefit positively and experience lower levels of stress if they actively do things to reduce stress

5.  Emotional – warmth and understanding  Informational – giving ideas or help  Practical –tangible help (babysitting, offering $$$)

6.  Men: fight or flight from testosterone  Women: tend and be friend from hormone oxytocin

7.  Western cultures – emphasis on independence  Eastern cultures – more interdependent

8.  Self-help groups  Internet based groups is rising

9.  Meditation – teaches to face stress “mindfully,” which means to step back form thoughts and feelings  Body Scan  Yoga  Sitting Meditation