Select a client (or other acquaintance) with whom you have discussed a significant (to them) problem of some type. Write about the nature of stress that the person experienced and his or her coping style. Describe whether the specific coping practices were productive toward the person’s problem resolution. Might an alternative coping strategy have been more productive for him or her?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The purpose of this assignment is to demonstrate that, while the problem solving process is a “rational” strategy, people often fail to act rationally when faced with a significant life problem because their feelings come into play in ways that may inhibit problem solving. Examples of problems that students can use include how they respond to academic pressures, or how they deal with the challenge of financing their college educations. As noted earlier, the steps if problem-solving include:
• Problem identification and exploration
• Planning for problem resolution
• Implementation of the plan
• Evaluation of the plan
Students should note whether particular coping styles (as described earlier) are associated with productive problem solving.