Describe some ways to deal with stress, and propose a plan that you think works for you.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Coping is defined as “constantly changing cognitive and behavioral efforts to
manage specific external and/or internal demands that are appraised as taxing or
exceeding the resources of the person.” There are two types of coping: behavioral
methods (problem-solving behaviors) and cognitive methods (managing thoughts and
emotions). Examples of behavioral (or active) coping strategies are keeping a positive
outlook, working harder, and seeking advice and help. Examples of cognitive methods
include reordering life priorities and convincing oneself that work isn’t all that important.
Men and women may cope differently. A meta-analysis found that women are more
likely than men to engage in most forms of coping strategies. In particular, the strongest
effects showed that women were more likely to use strategies that involved verbal
expressions by seeking emotional support. For example, they were more likely than
men to ruminate about problems and use positive self-talk.
An employee’s ability to cope with stress relates to their well-being and job
performance. For example, research has shown that active coping with organizational
change has significant effects on extrinsic (higher salary, rank, and performance as well
as lower career plateauing) and intrinsic career outcomes for employees (organizational
commitment, job satisfaction). Emotional strategies help as well. The ability to detach
from work during off-job time is an important factor that helps to protect employee well-
being and work engagement, and one coping strategy is to ask for assistance or
support when experiencing stress.