Test Your Problem and Emotion-Focused Coping Strategies

Psychological coping mechanisms may be conscious or subconscious. Subconscious (or unconscious) coping strategies are called defense mechanisms, and you can test that here. Taking that test can be quite revealing, and to this date, it is one of the most popular tests on this site. Conscious coping strategies, however, are slightly different. By definition, they involve conscious effort to minimize stress and overcome the problem.

There are hundreds of coping strategies but in this simple test we will look at three common strategies:

• problem solving (problem-focused),
• seeking social support (emotion-focused),
• escape / avoidance (emotion-focused).

To take the test, you have to answer the question:

WHAT BEHAVIORS DESCRIBE YOU WHEN FACED WITH A SERIOUS PROBLEM?

I cry on my friend’s shoulder.
always
usually
never

I oversleep.
always
usually
never

I experience life through movie or game characters.
always
usually
never

I make a plan to dig myself out of that hole.
always
usually
never

I want to be left alone.
always
usually
never

I look for advice from people who had a similar problem.
always
usually
never

I try to focus on something else.
always
usually
never

I keep talking about my problem because talking through it helps me find a solution.
always
usually
never

I gladly accept help and support from others.
always
usually
never

I stay alone for the most part.
always
usually
never

I do my best to resolve the issue at hand.
always
usually
never

I brainstorm all possible solutions before doing anything.
always
usually
never

I receive emotional support from friends and family.
always
usually
never

I keep dreaming of a better life.
always
usually
never

I discuss the situation with anyone who is willing to listen.
always
usually
never

I carefully consider all possible steps I could take.
always
usually
never

Without any delay, I keep trying to resolve my problem using different methods.
always
usually
never

I hide my emotions and pretend to be okay.
always
usually
never

I talk to friends and relatives.
always
usually
never

I share my worries with someone who can comfort me.
always
usually
never

I pursue a hobby or exercise.
always
usually
never

I keep thinking what I could do to improve the situation.
always
usually
never

I keep thinking what to do next.
always
usually
never

I try to escape by playing games or watching television.
always
usually
never

I look for someone who can make me feel better.
always
usually
never

I am completely focused on finding a solution.
always
usually
never

I am committed to fighting back and protecting myself.
always
usually
never

I begin to avoid people.
always
usually
never

I ask my friends for insights on my situation.
always
usually
never

I ask my friends what they would do in my place.
always
usually
never

I fantasize how things could be different.
always
usually
never

I keep researching looking for new solutions.
always
usually
never

I think of the best way to execute my plan and get rid of the problem.
always
usually
never

GET RESULTS

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