Problem-focused coping is a type of coping strategy that aims to change or eliminate a stressor by applying coping skills directly to the source of a distressing situation. This approach targets the root cause of stress, allowing individuals to reduce or eliminate an issue. Examples of problem-focused coping include planning, problem-solving, and removing the stressor altogether. Problem-focused coping is used primarily when a person appraises a stressor as within their capacity to change.
Compared to emotion-focused coping, problem-focused coping is consistently associated with lower stress levels and better mental health. Emotion-focused coping, on the other hand, includes all the regulative efforts to diminish the emotional consequences of stressful events. Examples of emotion-focused coping include withdrawal, letting out anger and frustration, emotional support seeking, distractions, rumination, and resignation acceptance. Emotion-focused coping is best for dealing with stressful events beyond an individuals control.
In summary, problem-focused coping is a coping strategy that targets the root cause of stress, while emotion-focused coping aims to deal with an individuals emotional response to the stressor. Both coping strategies have their benefits and are better suited for different situations.
