Family of Origin Environment and Coping with Situations Which Vary by Level of Stress Intensity

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between family of origin environment and coping responses across situations that were perceived as increasingly stressful and outside the participants' own life experience. The analogue method included three hypothetical scenarios: a friend's betrayal of a confidence, an intoxicated friend's rejection of a ride and subsequent alcohol-related injury, and a sexual assault by a friend. Family environment was related to women's description of coping strategies for all situations, but was only significantly related to men's coping for betrayal of a confidence. Emotionally responsive, democratic family environments were related to strategies that more actively and directly addressed the stressor or its psychological impact. Enmeshed and conflictual environments were related to more avoidant strategies and use of alcohol or drugs. Family structure and hierarchical organization appeared to have differential influences for men and women. Coping and gender differences in coping also varied with situation.