Dealing with discouragement in the teaching career: examining teachers’ experiences and coping strategies in a private Mexican university
This study examines 318 Mexican university teachers' experiences of discouragement related to teaching practices and the work environment, identifying six subcategories; findings suggest that coping mechanisms are not always more effective with experience, highlighting the need for targeted support.
This study explores teachers’ experiences associated with discouragement in regard to their teaching careers and the strategies they use to cope with this perceived discouragement. Participants were 318 Mexican university teachers. Data was collected through and online questionnaire with open-ended questions. Through a mixedmethod analysis, results show that teachers’ discouraging experiences were related to Teaching practices and Working environment. Among those two main categories, six subcategories were identified. Notably, teachers’ effective coping mechanisms do not always become more effective with experience, and thus, different kinds of support are needed to help teachers manage challenging emotional experiences.
- Conference Article
- 10.2991/icsshe-16.2016.40
- Jan 1, 2016
This study aims to promote the development of vocational education in our country energetically. The analysis is followed by introducing the course of development on vocational and technical education in Britain and summarizing the successful experience of vocation in our country with strengthening the funding and legislation for the state of vocational education as well as putting forward suggestions for reform and innovation of education to improve the system of certificates.
- Research Article
5
- 10.18502/ijps.v17i4.10694
- Sep 19, 2022
- Iranian Journal of Psychiatry
Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the effects of different coping strategies on the mood states (anxiety and depression) of healthcare providers in the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.Method: From February to April 2020, we asked medical staff in 4 referral hospitals in Iran to voluntarily complete online questionnaires including: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-2) questionnaire, Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2) and the Coping Strategies Questionnaire-28. Univariate and multiple logistic regressions were applied to identify the associations of coping strategies and mood states.Results: 258 people filled out the online questionnaire. Of them, 39.9% and 39.1% reported anxiety and depression, respectively, with age as a risk factor. Overall, participants used more emotion-based coping strategies. Anxiety and depression were associated with applying more of emotion-based and less of problem-based coping mechanisms. The findings remained stable even after adjustment for confounding variables including age, gender and direct contact with COVID-19 patients.Conclusion: Providing social support to health workers, planning to reduce their perceived stigma, and educating them about how to use more effective coping mechanisms can be beneficial in reducing the psychological impact on this segment of the population in the event of COVID-19.
- Research Article
22
- 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1280423
- Sep 28, 2023
- Frontiers in Public Health
BackgroundSince February 2022, the nation of Ukraine has become entangled in an escalating conflict that erupted after coronavirus outbreak fostering a situation of indeterminacy and precariousness, which adversely affected several facets, especially psychological well-being. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence on the psychological well-being of Ukrainians during the Russo-Ukraine war, as well as their coping strategies in response to the war’s repercussions. Consequently, this investigation endeavors to explore the prevalence of symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia and to correlate these symptoms with Ukrainians’ effective coping mechanisms during the ongoing war.MethodsAn online survey was administered in Ukraine from June to August 2022 due to the ongoing Russo-Ukraine conflict. The survey employed a quota sampling technique, targeting 2,664 individuals (≥18 years). Out of the total sample, 1,833 valid responses were obtained, yielding a response rate of 68. 81%. Depression, anxiety, and stress were measured using the depression, anxiety, and stress scale-21 (DASS-21), while the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) was utilized to evaluate insomnia symptoms. In addition, Brief-COPE was adopted to evaluate the coping mechanisms of the selected study participants.ResultsOf 1,833 Ukrainian adults, 60.5% had symptoms of stress; 62.4% of them reported symptoms of anxiety; and 58.2% reported symptoms of depression. Symptom criteria for insomnia were found in about 21.8% of the study sample. The factors of sex, living area, area occupied by Russian forces, and having older adults and children in the house were statistically significant with symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia. The productive coping strategies of self-distraction, using instrumental support, planning, and behavioral disengagement, were observed as statistically significant with four psychological constructs.ConclusionThe study outcomes highlight a substantial prevalence of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia attributed to the accumulated consequences of ongoing conflict and the COVID-19 outbreak. The aforementioned findings emphasize the imperative of providing healthcare services and facilitating effective coping strategies among Ukrainians amid the ongoing war.
- Research Article
1
- 10.1186/s12889-025-22852-8
- Apr 28, 2025
- BMC Public Health
BackgroundThe foundation for mental health is laid in childhood and adolescence.For young people, adolescence is associated with multiple developmental tasks. In this vulnerable phase of life, they often start a vocational training. Particularly during vocational training in the health and social care sector, adolescents are confronted with highly stressful situations, e.g., serious illness, death, or sexual harassment. In this study we aimed to explore adolescents’ experiences and perceptions affecting their mental health during vocational education and training.MethodsWe performed five focus group interviews with a total of 41 vocational education and training students from different fields in the health and social care professions. Data analysis was based on Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) according to Smith.ResultsWe identified five superordinate themes and 17 subordinate themes. The personal circumstances and the pronounced shortage of staff throughout the health and social care sector play a major role for the vocational education and training students’ (VETs) mental health during their vocational training. In addition, vocational education and training students are confronted with various challenges that are atypical for their age (e.g. the death of a patient). They try to being able to maintain a balance between the stressful factors and the coping strategies available to them. This can improve as well as worsen mental health and well-being. Vocational education and training students express the need to counteract the stressful factors of their vocational training with positive aspects of their lives. They try to find a bridge to the outside world again. However, they depend on the support from the vocational training school, the vocational training company, and their social environment.ConclusionToday’s vocational education and training students are tomorrow’s skilled workers. Investing in their mental health can help reduce staff shortages in the long term and prevent mental health impairments in this vulnerable group. To this end, training institutions, companies and politicians should create appropriate framework conditions.
- Research Article
2
- 10.15766/mep_2374-8265.11300
- Feb 14, 2023
- MedEdPORTAL
The value of psychological principles has become apparent in medical settings, especially with the rise of patient-centered care. We aimed to provide a curriculum informing medical providers about the theoretical basis and clinical utility of the social-cognitive model of stress and coping. This workshop was delivered to an interprofessional team of faculty and trainees. Our initial pedagogical approach was to relate the concepts of cognitive appraisals and coping strategies to participants' own stress responses. We then used didactic presentation and small-group activities to explore ways to promote adaptive coping with patients to improve health outcomes. Learners participated in a mindfulness exercise, conceptualized coping strategies given a hypothetical case scenario, and, in small groups, role-played a patient encounter to construct an effective coping repertoire for the patient. Participants completed a prework self-assessment and workshop evaluation form. The 2.5-hour workshop had 48 participants from five professions (medicine, education, physician assistant, pharmacology, psychology). We received 35 evaluations (73% response rate). Learners reported increased real-world skills (M = 8.0 out of 10) and feeling better prepared for working in interprofessional settings (M = 7.6 out of 10). Qualitative feedback suggested that participants recognized the importance of individual differences in coping with stress and felt they could categorize strategies into emotion- or problem-focused coping. This workshop provided participants with basic knowledge about the social-cognitive model of stress and coping and allowed them to practice newly learned skills in a role-play as an interprofessional medical care team.
- Research Article
- 10.1186/s40359-025-02611-5
- Jun 4, 2025
- BMC Psychology
BackgroundIt is important to have a detailed understanding of the association between risk perception, coping mechanisms, and mental health outcomes during the COVID-19 syndemic across axes of inequity such as gender identity and education level.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study among 2,066 adults (≥ 18 years) living in Spain via an online survey from April 8 to May 28, 2021. Anxiety and depression were the main outcomes considered to assess mental health, measured with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 item (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire 9 item (PHQ-9), respectively. We analyzed the distribution of anxiety and depression levels across risk perception and coping mechanism variables, stratifying by gender identity and education level.ResultsAnxiety and depression levels were associated with age in a gradient fashion, with the 18–30 age group reporting the highest anxiety levels in both women (aOR: 3.11, 95% CI: 1.57–6.17) and men (aOR: 4.92, 1.90–12.74). This gradient was maintained especially in individuals with university level studies. For women, higher anxiety levels were associated with perceived risk in meeting up with friends and family (aOR: 1.73, 1.12–2.67) and being out in public (aOR 2.98, 2.15–4.14), whereas men perceived more risk in occupying closed public spaces and using public transportation (e.g., aOR: 2.14, 95% CI: 1.09–4.22). Connecting with friends and family was the most effective coping mechanism. In general, women reported more effective coping mechanisms than men and findings were strongest in the population with university level studies. Likewise, men with university level studies reported more effective coping mechanisms than men without university level studies.ConclusionsWomen and men with university level studies reported higher risk perception and more effective coping mechanisms during the COVID-19 syndemic than individuals without a university level education. These findings reveal possible strategies for primary care and public health agencies to follow to improve mental health outcomes along different axes of inequity, especially in the case of future syndemics and public health crises.
- Research Article
70
- 10.1080/00221320109597492
- Dec 1, 2001
- The Journal of Genetic Psychology
A group of high school juniors and a group of high school seniors in Izmir, Turkey completed measures of test anxiety, coping skills, and perceived health status both before and after a major exam period. Students with high test anxiety used less effective coping mechanisms and tended to have poorer perceptions of their health. Prior to the exams, juniors displayed higher test anxiety and used less effective coping mechanisms than seniors. After the exam periods, improvements were seen for both age groups on perceived health, but scores of younger students remained significantly higher than scores of seniors on one of the key measures of test anxiety. Results of the study lend support to those of previous studies done in other cultural contexts, and findings have implications for the development of interventions designed to help students cope with stress.
- Research Article
- 10.62065/bjhs538
- Apr 16, 2024
- Birat Journal of Health Sciences
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the wellness and health of individuals, particularly healthcare staff. Effective coping mechanisms have been identified as crucial in managing emotional responses Objectives: This study aimed to assess the emotional response and coping strategies among nurses working in COVID referral hospitals in Morang district. Methodology: A cross-sectional online questionnaire survey was conducted from June to October 2021, employing total population enumeration technique with 350 nurses. Emotional responses were assessed using the PANAS-GEN scale, and coping strategies were evaluated using a modified Brief Cope Inventory (BCI). Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney U-test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Pearson linear correlation, and multiple linear regressions. Results: The majority of participants (84.6%) were aged 21-30 years, and 97.1% were female. Emotional-focused coping was slightly higher among nurses aged over 31 and those with two or more children (p=0.019). A significant relationship was observed between coping strategies and emotional response. Both positive and negative emotional responses correlated with problem-focused coping (p < 0.001 and 0.017). Problem-focused coping significantly influenced positive (p < 0.001, CI 17.044-27.254) and negative responses (p=0.000, CI 16.467-26.104). Additionally, emotion-focused coping was a significant factor in negative response (p=0.001, CI 0.062-0.246). Conclusion: Emotional coping was slightly higher among nurses over thirty-one years old and those with two or more children. Positive and negative emotional responses were associated with problem-focused coping, indicating its influence on both types of responses. Moreover, emotion-focused coping was linked to negative responses.
- Research Article
- 10.52131/pjhss.2025.v13i1.2762
- Mar 30, 2025
- Pakistan Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences
The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and daily stress responses, focusing on the moderating roles of pet attachment and coping strategies among pet owners residing in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. A sample of 130 individuals aged 20 to 37 years, were collected through snowball sampling technique. The study employs of self-report measures, including the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Questionnaire, the Daily Stress Response Scale (DSRS), The Scale of Comfort from Companion Animal (CCAS), and the Coping Scale (CS). Descriptive, correlational and regression analyses were computed to analyze the relationship between adverse childhood experiences, daily stress response, and the moderating roles of pet attachment and coping strategies. The results of the study suggested a significant positive correlation between ACEs and daily stress responses, supporting the hypothesis that individuals with a history of ACEs experience elevated stress. The regression analysis demonstrated that the coping strategies and pet attachment significantly moderated the relationship between ACEs and daily stress responses. These finding further suggest that emotional support from pets and effective coping mechanisms can guard the adverse and negative effects of childhood experiences on daily stress responses, in the adulthood. The study focused on the importance of pet attachment and coping strategies in reducing increased stress, particularly for individuals which are affected by ACEs. This research highlights the importance of applying early interventions for individuals with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) which is essential in reducing the risk of long-term negative impacts on stress regulation and overall mental well-being.
- Research Article
- 10.32523/2616-6895-2024-147-2-525-537
- Jan 1, 2024
- BULLETIN OF L.N. GUMILYOV EURASIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY. PEDAGOGY. PSYCHOLOGY. SOCIOLOGY SERIES
In contemporary society, social work faces a serious problem of a shortage of qualified professionals. This shortage caused by the low prestige of the profession and significant professional burnout among practicing social workers. Professional burnout, a result of chronic stress and emotional exhaustion, negatively impacts the quality of services provided, deteriorating the overall quality of life for both the specialists themselves and society as a whole. The article examines this issue in detail, focusing on the role of coping strategies in managing stress and preventing burnout. The authors of the article pay special attention to adaptive coping strategies, such as seeking social support, positive reevaluation, and the development of professional skills, which help to cope with professional challenges and reduce the risk of developing professional burnout. The study utilizes diagnostic methods for assessing the level of professional burnout and coping strategies among social workers in the city of Karaganda. The results show that effective coping mechanisms can play a crucial role in preventing or mitigating the symptoms of professional burnout, improving the psychological state and professional well-being of social workers. The article offers a number of recommendations aimed at developing educational programs and organizational policies to support social workers, including art therapy and training in the use of effective coping strategies. These measures are directed at increasing the resilience of social workers to stress, developing skills for actively coping with professional challenges, and preventing burnout. In conclusion, the authors emphasize that the integration of effective coping strategies into the practice of social work is a key factor in the resilience of professionals to stress and burnout, contributing to the improvement of the quality and effectiveness of the services provided and the retention of qualified specialists in the field of social work.
- Research Article
2
- 10.1016/j.nedt.2025.106956
- Apr 1, 2026
- Nurse education today
The objective of this systematic review is to provide deeper understanding and insight through combining the results of qualitative research that reported on the effective coping mechanisms used by nursing students to deal with the pressure they face and support their adaptation in the clinical learning environment. All primary qualitative research studies published in English that reported on the coping strategies adopted by nursing students in the clinical learning environment were included. In December 2024, electronic databases including Medline EBSCO, CINAHL, Embase Ovid, Web of Science, ProQuest, ClinicalKey, and Scopus were searched. Retrieved papers were independently reviewed by two authors for selection based on title, abstract, and full text, with both authors agreeing on the inclusion of the papers. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and all included reports were appraised using the CASP checklist. The review included 30 studies involving 573 nursing students from 15 countries. The coping strategies identified were problem-solving, sharing and seeking help, determination, giving up, confrontation, self-regulation, proactive coping, positive reframing, avoidance, adaptation to ward culture, and venting emotions. To optimize learning in the clinical setting, nursing instructors, clinical agencies, and curriculum designers must recognize the stressors the students face and help them develop effective coping strategies. Targeted interventions should be implemented to reduce stress and promote healthy coping while creating supportive environments that foster students' growth and provide timely assistance for the learning process.
- Research Article
- 10.1051/e3sconf/202563202001
- Jan 1, 2025
- E3S Web of Conferences
Emotional well-being and effective coping mechanisms are essential aspects of healthcare practice, especially during a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected during the COVID-19 pandemic to evaluate emotional responses and coping strategies among nursing students and professional nurses. A total of 118 participants were included in the study, surveys included sociodemographic variables, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule Scale (PANAS), and the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (COPE). Statistical analyses were conducted to identify differences in emotional responses and coping strategies and to explore potential correlations between these variables. This study found no gender-based differences in emotional responses among nurses and nursing students. However, professional nurses exhibited more positive emotions (M = 32.87, SD = 4.92) and fewer negative emotions (M = 18.90, SD = 4.52) compared to students (M = 30.44, SD = 7.04 and M = 22.24, SD = 5.75, respectively). Women scored higher in denial (M = 4.70, SD = 0.77) but lower in behavioral disengagement (M = 4.14, SD = 1.26) and humor (M = 3.90, SD = 1.20) compared to men. Regarding coping strategies, professional nurses used self-distraction (M = 5.53, SD = 1.36), instrumental support (M = 5.44, SD = 1.18), venting (M = 4.23, SD = 1.09), and acceptance (M = 5.75, SD = 1.54) more than nursing students. Positive emotional responses were positively associated with approach coping for professional nurses (r =0.261, p < 0.05) and for nursing students (r = 0.423, p < 0.01) and with avoidant coping for the entire sample (r = 0.275, p < 0.01) and nursing students (r = 0.378, p < 0.05). In the light of these results, it is essential to provide the necessary crisis support for both profiles.
- Research Article
2
- 10.1080/01676830.2021.2013505
- Feb 26, 2022
- Orbit
Purpose Artificial eye clinics address physical and aesthetic aspects of orbital prostheses, but psychological effects may not be formally addressed. In general, without effective coping mechanisms, stress can lead to anxiety and depression. This study aims to determine, in the context of having an artificial eye, whether coping strategies, as well as perception of illness and other demographic and clinical variables are associated with anxiety or depression. Methods Consecutive patients attending two artificial eye clinics were invited to participate in this audit. Participants completed questionnaires: HADS, Brief IPQ and Brief COPE. Variables with a correlation coefficient of ≥0.2 with anxiety or depression were included in regression modeling. The extent to which the participants’ emotional and cognitive representations of their artificial eye related to feelings of anxiety and depression was determined. Results In the cohort of 208, clinically significant anxiety was present in 29.5% and clinically significant depression was present in 8.4%. Perceptions of the impact of the artificial eye and self-blame as a coping strategy were correlated with anxiety. Depression levels were higher when participants believed that their artificial eye had a greater impact on their life, when they lived alone, and when they used substances as a coping strategy. Conclusion Significant levels of anxiety exist in those living with artificial eyes, with various coping strategies used. Addressing this and offering alternative coping strategies may improve patient well being and overall satisfaction.
- Research Article
- 10.31357/pumithiri.v1i02.7828
- Dec 25, 2024
- පුමිතිරි 'Pumithiri' e-Journal of Gender Studies
This comprehensive literature review investigates gender disparities among undergraduates in Sri Lanka, exploring academic, financial, and social challenges. Despite women displaying higher enrollment, graduation rates, and academic performance, disparities extend to employment, relationships, and gender-based violence. Success stories highlight women breaking societal norms and men challenging traditional roles. The dynamic coping strategies employed underscore the necessity of ongoing support, policy changes, and societal awareness. An intersectional lens reveals unique challenges based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation. The review emphasizes the urgency of interventions for gender disparities, offering insights for policymakers, educators, and institutions. The subsequent examination of undergraduate life in Sri Lanka delves into academic pressure, financial hardships, limited support services, job prospects, and social issues. Gender-specific challenges demonstrate how societal expectations shape women's and men's experiences in higher education. The coping strategies section categorizes mechanisms and explores gender-specific ones, indicating potential disparities influenced by societal expectations. Factors affecting coping strategies, such as the work environment and social support, are discussed. The impact of coping strategies on academic success is analyzed, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between effective coping mechanisms and positive outcomes. The review concludes by outlining future research directions, advocating for an intersectionality perspective, longitudinal studies, and a focus on mental health's role in academic success. Implications for policy and practice stress the need for inclusive support services, faculty training programs, and initiatives promoting mental health awareness to create a supportive environment for all undergraduates.
- Research Article
1
- 10.12688/f1000research.153724.1
- Sep 18, 2024
- F1000Research
Introduction The emotional impact of patient loss in oncology and palliative care profoundly affects healthcare professionals. This study explores clinicians’ experiences, emotional reactions, and coping mechanisms in these fields, focusing on their professional and personal growth. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how healthcare professionals from different regions and with varying years of experience deal with patient loss, emphasizing cultural, social, and institutional influences on their coping strategies. Methods A mixed-methods approach combined qualitative and quantitative elements. Data were collected using a Microsoft® Forms© survey targeting oncology and palliative care healthcare professionals. The survey included questions on experiences with patient loss, coping strategies, personal and professional growth, and beliefs. Statistical methods and thematic analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data. Ethical approval was obtained, and the survey ensured participant anonymity and confidentiality. Results The survey received 125 responses from nineteen countries. Emotional reactions to patient loss were significant, with various coping strategies reported, including spiritual practices, self-care, and professional support groups. Personal and professional growth were key outcomes of dealing with patient loss. Themes like Emotional Impact, Coping Mechanisms, and Reflections on Death and Dying were prevalent. Analysis revealed no significant correlation between the time taken by the participants to complete the survey and years of healthcare experience. Conclusion Healthcare professionals in oncology and palliative care face significant emotional challenges due to patient loss. The study emphasizes the importance of diverse and effective coping mechanisms, the supportive role of personal beliefs and workplace environments, and the journey of personal and professional growth amidst these challenges. It highlights the resilience of healthcare workers and underscores the need for supportive systems in managing the emotional aspects of patient care.