There are some tragedies that appear out of the blue and can't be solved. But even if a problem cannot be fixed, your textbook authors describe three ways that have proven effective in helping people thrive as the result of a crisis

Question

Name and examine each of these effective cognitive coping methods.
What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: A good answer will include the following key points.
• Reappraising the situation involves choosing to think about it differently.
o Problems can be turned into challenges, and losses into unexpected gains.
o Reappraisal improves well-being and reduces negative emotions.
• Learning from the experience can be helpful.
o The ability to find meaning and benefits in adversity is crucial to psychological recovery.
• Making social comparisons involves comparing ourselves to others who are less fortunate.
o In a difficult situation, successful copers often compare themselves to others who they feel are less fortunate.
o Such comparisons are beneficial when they provide a person with information about ways of coping, managing an illness, or improving a stressful situation.