Emotional Coping Strategies Research Articles

The mediating effect of internet addiction and the moderating effect of physical activity on the relationship between alexithymia and depression.

There is a certain relationship between alexithymia and depression, but further investigation is needed to explore their underlying mechanisms. The aims of this study was to explore the mediating role of internet addiction between alexithymia and depression and the moderating role of physical activity. A total of 594 valid responses were included in the analysis, with a mean age of 18.72years (SD = 1.09). The sample comprised 250 males (42.09%) and 344 females (57.91%). These responses were utilized for descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and the development of mediation and moderation models. Alexithymia showed positive correlations with depression and internet addiction, and physical activity was negatively correlated with internet addiction and depression. Internet addiction partially mediated the relationship between alexithymia and depression, while physical activity weakened the association between internet addiction and depression, acting as a moderator. Our findings suggest that excessive Internet engagement may mediate the relationship between alexithymia and depression as an emotional regulatory coping strategy, and that physical activity attenuates the predictive effect of Internet addiction on depression.

Emotional Response and Coping Strategies of Nurses Working in COVID Referral Hospitals of Morang District

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.

Experiences of Patients with Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis: A Mixed-Methods Study of the Insider’s Perspective

ObjectiveUnilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) is often characterized by severe dysphonia and has a significant impact on a patient’s communication in daily and vocational situations. Having a better understanding of how UVFP influences quality of life and patient experiences can help improve patient-centered care in this population. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of patients with UVFP. MethodsTwenty-five adults with UVFP (age range: 39 – 84 years) participated in the study. Quantitative data were collected from 22 participants, using the Voice Handicap Index (VHI), Dysphonia Severity Index (DSI), and Acoustic Voice Quality Index (AVQI). Qualitative data were collected from 25 individual semi-structured interviews, which were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed with the software program NVivo. The interviews were coded using an inductive thematic approach. ResultsQuantitative results showed a mean DSI of -1.6, mean AVQI of 3.80, and mean VHI of 45.8 in the participant group. A statistically significant, moderate (positive) correlation was found between VHI and time after onset (in years). From the qualitative analysis of the interviews, four main themes were identified: emotional impact, psychosocial impact, physical complaints, and coping strategies. Voice problems caused by UVFP generally had a negative impact on patients’ emotional and psychological well-being, with considerable effects on participation, self-identity, and professional activity. Participants demonstrated a combination of problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies to accommodate to these issues. Half of the participant group also showed avoidance as a coping style. VHI scores were significantly higher in participants who reported experiencing current emotional and participation problems due to UVFP, and who had not yet accepted their new voice. ConclusionThe themes from this study emphasize the importance of focused anamnesis and emotive counseling in practice, with specific attention to the psychosocial and emotional impact of UVFP. Data Availability StatementData is available from the authors upon request due to privacy reasons.

Perceived Parenting Styles in Relation with Coping Strategies among the Children of Single Parents in Pakistan

Background: The dynamics within single-parent families, particularly the influence of parenting styles on the coping strategies of children, have garnered significant attention in psychological research. The intricate relationship between a parent's approach to raising their child and the child's subsequent development of coping mechanisms to navigate life's challenges is pivotal to understanding the psychosocial well-being of children in single-parent families. Objective: This study aimed to elucidate the correlations between different parenting styles—permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative—and the coping strategies adopted by children of single parents. Additionally, it sought to identify which parenting styles significantly predict the coping strategies utilized by these children. Methods: A correlational and comparative study design was employed, involving 153 adolescents aged 13 to 19 from single-parent families in Faisalabad and Sargodha, Pakistan. The Coping Response Inventory (CRI) and Parental Authority Questionnaire (PAQ) were utilized to measure coping strategies and parenting styles, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson’s moment correlation, regression analysis, and Independent Samples T-Test to examine the relationships between parenting styles and coping strategies and to assess gender differences. Results: The findings indicated a significant positive correlation between permissive and authoritarian parenting styles (r ranging from .439 to .787, p < .01). Regression analysis revealed that logical analysis, positive reappraisal, and problem-solving were significant predictors of coping strategies (p < .001). Gender-based analysis showed females scored significantly higher in positive reappraisal, seeking guidance/support, acceptance/resignation, and emotional discharge coping strategies compared to males (p < .005). No significant gender differences were found in parenting styles. Conclusion: The study highlights the significant impact of permissive and authoritarian parenting styles on the development of coping strategies among children of single parents. Tailored interventions supporting single parents in adopting more adaptive parenting styles could foster better coping mechanisms in their children, enhancing their psychosocial well-being.

Trauma, Emotional Regulation, and Coping Styles in Individuals with and without Probable Dissociative Disorders in Hong Kong

ABSTRACT Previous studies showed that dissociation and dissociative disorders (DDs) are prevalent and are associated with considerable individual and social consequences. There are ongoing debates regarding whether dissociation is a response to betrayal trauma across cultures and whether dissociation can be explained by maladaptive coping. Additionally, little is known about the clinical features of individuals with DDs in the Chinese context. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between trauma, emotional regulation, coping, and dissociation. We analyzed baseline data from a randomized controlled trial (N = 101). Participants with dissociative symptoms in Hong Kong completed self-report assessments. Structured interviews were also conducted subsequently. Participants with probable DDs reported more traumatic events (p = .009 to .017) and exhibited significantly higher levels of dysfunctional coping (p < .001) compared to those who reported dissociative symptoms but did not have a DD. Dissociative symptoms were more strongly associated with betrayal trauma than with non-betrayal trauma. Among different emotion regulation and coping strategies, dysfunctional coping was the only significant factor associated with dissociative symptoms (β = .309, p = .003). Dysfunctional coping was a statistically significant mediator that may explain the relationship between betrayal trauma and dissociative symptoms. Although other mediation paths are also possible and further longitudinal studies are required, our findings highlight the strong link between dysfunctional coping and dissociative symptoms and suggest that coping skills training should be incorporated into interventions for betrayal trauma survivors with dissociative symptoms. Additionally, this study provides evidence for the cross-cultural validity of the betrayal trauma theory. Further studies, however, are required.

Person-Centered Associations between High- and Low-Risk Personality Profiles and Psychological Adjustment in University Students

Personality traits are considered potential risk or protective factors for learning and psychological adjustment. This is a concern in higher education settings, which comprise mostly youth in emerging adulthood. The purpose of this study is to apply a person-centered approach to identify personality profiles of university students based on their character traits and then evaluate whether some clusters predict differences in emotional distress and coping strategies. We conducted a cross-sectional web-based survey with 467 southern Italian undergraduate university students (M=21.8, SD=3.69). Students completed an anonymous online survey and self-report questionnaires measuring sociodemographic characteristics, personality traits (Personality Inventory for DSM-5), emotional distress (General Anxiety Disorders-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and coping strategies (Brief-COPE). Two distinct clusters were identified, differing in relation to maladaptive personality traits. One was characterized by high maladaptive personality traits, comprising 45.6% of the sample population. This high-risk profile evidenced higher levels of negative affect, detachment, psychoticism, antagonism, and disinhibition. A second cluster, with low maladaptive personality traits, represented the remainder of the sample. Participants featuring high maladaptive personality traits reported lower functioning in terms of avoidant coping strategies in comparison to the second low-risk cluster. Generating profiles of latent traits, such as in cluster analysis, can enhance a more profound theoretical understanding of underlying patterns within personality traits. This can enable higher education settings to meet variations in student needs by adapting their support services and interventions. Students can be trained to use coping strategies more effectively and efficiently.

When best friendships end: young adolescents' responses to hypothetical best friendship dissolution and associations with real-life friendship outcomes

IntroductionThis study examined young adolescents' responses to two types of hypothetical best friendship dissolution (complete and downgrade dissolutions). Responses included their attributions, emotional reactions, and coping strategies. It also considered whether responses vary across dissolution type and are related to the real-life friendship-specific outcomes of best friendship dissolution and friendship quantity.MethodData were collected from 318 young adolescents at two time points (Time 1 (T1): Mage = 11.87 years) and included a newly-developed vignette measure of responses to hypothetical complete and downgrade dissolutions (T1), real-life complete and downgrade dissolutions experienced by participants (T2), and friendship (T1, T2).ResultsFindings showed that adolescents responded differently in their emotional reactions and coping strategies to hypothetical complete and downgrade dissolutions. Path models revealed unique linkages between several responses, such as vengeful coping and the real-life friendship-specific outcomes.DiscussionFindings suggest variability in how young adolescents respond to hypothetical best friendship dissolutions and that such variability may explain differences in their real-life friendships.

“I’m Doing the Best that I Can”: Mothers Lived Experience with Food Insecurity, Coping Strategies, and Mental Health Implications

BackgroundFood insecurity can have lasting physical and mental health consequences. The experience of food insecurity within a household may disproportionately impact mothers because they tend to manage the household food environment. ObjectiveThis study sought to understand the stresses faced by United States mothers experiencing food insecurity, related coping mechanisms, and the impacts of these stressors on their mental health. MethodsSemistructured interviews were conducted in May and June 2022 with a purposive sample of Virginia mothers who reported experiences of food insecurity. Participants were recruited from a related survey and university and community LISTSERVs. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed by trained coders. A thematic analysis was conducted to describe themes that emerged from the data. Virtual interviews were 20–60 min in duration. Mothers with children living in their household, having experienced food insecurity, and living in Virginia were eligible. ResultsThe following 3 themes emerged from the interviews with the mothers (n = 15): 1) food insecurity added stress to mothers’ lives in multiple ways (e.g. worry about obtaining the “right” foods and internalized or experienced stigma), 2) mothers used positive and negative coping strategies to address the impacts of these stressors (e.g. use of community resources and reduced personal food intake), and 3) the stressors and coping strategies had varying impacts on mothers’ mental health (e.g. added to existing mental health challenges or reduced their mental capacity to make changes). ConclusionsStudy findings suggest that a multilevel and tailored approach to address diverse stressors is warranted. Future research should explore emotional coping strategies that comprehensively empower mothers to manage stressors, leverage resources, and reduce social stigma associated with food insecurity and accessing nutrition and mental health assistance. This may improve their household food security and mitigate the burden of stressors on their mental health because system-level solutions to food insecurity are pursued.

Yoga resilience training to prevent the development of posttraumatic stress disorder in active-duty first responders: A cluster randomized controlled trial.

Evidence on effective prevention of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is sparse, particularly among first responders. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a Tactical Mind-Body Resilience Training program on PTSD symptoms in first responders. Active-duty first responders (n = 80; Mage = 41.8 years, 82.5% men) were randomized to the intervention group or the waitlist control condition. PTSD symptoms as measured by the PTSD-8 were the primary outcome assessed at postintervention and at 3-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes were cognitive and emotional coping strategies, resilience, somatic symptoms, work performance, and sickness absence. At postintervention, the intervention group had significantly reduced PTSD symptoms compared to the control group (d = -0.26, difference = -2.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-4.93, -0.11], p = .040); however, this difference was attenuated at 3-month follow-up (d = -0.07, difference = -1.41, 95% CI [-3.83, 1.01], p = .248). The intervention group had significant improvements in cognitive reappraisal and resilience at postintervention compared to the control group, which were sustained at 3 months. The remaining secondary outcomes had statistically nonsignificant improvements. This workplace-delivered intervention shows potential in preventing the development of PTSD in first responders. Further research is needed on maintaining long-term benefits of this training. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Emotional Dysregulation and Coping Strategies in the Context of Problematic Pornography Use: A Narrative Review

Emotional Dysregulation and Coping Strategies in the Context of Problematic Pornography Use: A Narrative Review

Emotion Regulation, Coping Strategies, and Hazardous Drinking Among Family Caregivers of People With Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.

The current study investigated hazardous drinking and alcohol use disorders among 453 family caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). We examined the prevalence of hazardous drinking and its relationship with emotion regulation and coping strategies (problem-solving, social support, and avoidance) using data from the first wave of a longitudinal study on daily ADRD caregiving experiences. A binary logistic regression model was performed to predict the relationship between potential risk factors and hazardous drinking. Findings revealed that 18.1% of ADRD caregivers screened positive for hazardous drinking based on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption. Caregivers experiencing greater difficulties in emotion regulation and greater reliance on avoidance as a coping strategy were at higher risk of screening positive for hazardous drinking. These findings stress the importance of targeted interventions to improve emotion regulation and reduce avoidance coping in ADRD caregivers, ultimately enhancing their well-being. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, 17(2), 81-90.].

Completed year of study moderating effect on the relation between coping strategies and self-esteem among novice nurses – cross sectional study

Abstract Aim. To investigate the moderating role of the completed year of study on the relationship between coping strategies and self-esteem among undergraduate nursing students. Material and methods. Data collection was carried out in June-December 2020. A convenience sample has been used. A number of 182 questionnaires have been included for the analysis. A questionnaire consists of two scales (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Brief COPE) and a metric. Results. The lowest self-esteem presented nursing students who completed their second year of education (M=24.74; SD=4.97). A moderation effect of the completed year of education on the relationship between self-esteem and the self-blame coping strategy and between the level of self-esteem and use of emotional support coping strategy was found. Conclusions. The alarming results for students who completed the second year of study indicate the need for special attention and intervention among this group. Moreover, study-life balance should be promoted to deal with stress more effectively and to support students’ self-esteem.

Work-Related Stressors and Coping Strategies of Nurses in a Selected Tertiary Hospital in a City in the Philippines

Background: Nurses may experience stress at work due to reasons like job overload, lack of sleep, a feeling of lack of support, and many more. Therefore, nurses must have coping strategies in place to provide all patients with the best possible care. The aim of this study is to determine the significant relationship between work-related stressors and the coping strategies of the nurses in a selected tertiary hospital in Bulacan by identifying their profile variables, their work-related stressors, and their coping strategies. Methods: Adapted survey questionnaires were answered by 206 nurses working in different areas of the Bulacan Medical Center in a self-administered manner, and 166 data points were suitable for data analysis. Nurses have diverse profiles. The data obtained were analyzed using different statistical treatments – percentage, weighted mean, one-way ANOVA t- test, and Pearson r to yield the needed results for the study. Results: Work-related stressors (F=3.571, p&lt;.001, &amp; η^2=.263) and coping strategies (F=3.938, p&lt;.001, η^2=.283) have significant differences in their area of duty. As for their work-related stressors, it is evident that nurses perceive external stressors to be slightly more significant (M = 2.58) than internal stressors (M = 2.49). For coping, nurses often employ problem-focused strategies (M = 3.04) to deal with stressors in their work environment than emotional coping strategies (M = 2.68). With regards to the correlation between work-related stressors and coping strategies, there is a moderate positive correlation between the two (r=.521, p&lt;.001). Conclusion: The findings of the study confirmed the presence of both external and internal work-related stressors among nurses. External stressors such as workload, conflicts at work, and dealing with difficult patients and their families were identified as significant sources of stress. Internal factors, including high expectations, feelings of inadequacy, and negative emotions during task performance, were also found to contribute to nurses' stress levels. This study confirmed that age, civil status, length of service, sex, and employment status did not significantly influence nurses' experiences of work-related stress or their choice of coping strategies. The result of this study concludes that work-related stressors and coping strategies are impacted by their area of assignment. Nurses working in critical care units, such as emergency rooms and intensive care units, experienced higher levels of stress compared to those in other areas. Nurses who experienced higher levels of work-related stress were more likely to employ coping strategies to manage and regulate stressful events. In light of this, it also concludes that work-related stressors and coping strategies of the nurses in Bulacan Medical Center are correlated with each other. In line with the significant correlation between work-related stressors and the coping strategies of nurses, it can be concluded that in the nursing profession, resiliency is prevalent even in stressful situations. Additionally, in this study, it was also highlighted that nurses employ problem-focused coping more than emotion-focused coping. This also implies how nurses in a clinical setting are more likely to be self-composed for them to formulate an organized and planned action in the presence of conflict.

Emotional Dependency And Coping Strategies In Dating Relationships In Peruvian University Students

In the specialized literature, the relationship of emotional dependence with dating violence in general has been studied, but few studies have been concerned with relating it to coping strategies, especially in university students, in this sense the research aimed to determine to what extent coping strategies predict emotional dependence in dating relationships. It is a basic study with a non-experimental design of causal correlational scope, the sample was 286 university students of both sexes, the Emotional Dependency Inventory and the BriefCope 28 Coping Scale were applied, according to the results an R of 0.580 was obtained, the R-squared is 0.337 and the adjusted R-squared is 0.334, This is interpreted as a low positive causal correlation between the variables, in addition to significant differences of 0.02 &lt; 0.05 between men and women, being the first to obtain higher scores in emotional dependence. It is concluded that the strategies used by young people to face various situations, specifically in the field of love, do not necessarily predict emotional dependence on their partner, so it is noteworthy that further research investigates the causal relationship between emotional dependence and self-esteem, self-concept or social skills.

Emotional Coping Strategies for Informal Caregivers of Hospitalized Patients: A Study of Distress and Overload.

Informal caregivers constitute a vulnerable population group that has forsaken their activities and life projects with the sole purpose of caring for a dependent individual without receiving any form of compensation in return. Emotionally, this population has been neglected by both the state and family members, exacerbating distress levels among them. The objective is to analyze the impact of emotional coping strategies on the experiences of distress and emotional burden among adult informal caregivers tending to hospitalized individuals. The role of emotional coping strategies in caregiver burden and psychological distress was examined in 460 informal adult caregivers from Guayaquil, Ecuador, who participated in an online survey. The instruments used included the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS 21), the Zarit Burden Inventory (ZBI), and the Emotional Coping Questionnaire (Cuestionario de Afrontamiento Emocional). The analysis involved a multiple regression to iteratively select variables, aiming to build a simpler and more explanatory model. Employing multiple regression analysis with a stepwise model selection procedure, it was found that 16.5% of the variance in depression, 19.5% of the variance in anxiety, 19.8% of the variance in stress, and 32% of the variance in burden were predicted by specific coping strategies. Additionally, the impact of burden was estimated by the participants' gender, with greater burden observed among males due to societal role expectations. This study underscores the importance of emotional coping in the experience of informal caregivers and suggests that psychological interventions should focus on developing adaptive strategies to manage the stress and emotional burden associated with caregiving.

N38 Male patients with Crohn's Disease and perianal fistulae and their experience of sexuality and dialogue with healthcare professionals about their sexuality - a qualitative interview study

Abstract Background The incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has increased significantly over the last 30 years. IBD most often debuts in young adulthood and can have an impact on the patient's body image, intimate relationships and sexual function. The aim of this study was to explore how male patients with Crohn's disease and perianal fistulae, experience how their disease affects their sexuality, and how they experience the dialogue with healthcare professionals about sexuality and their related challenges. Methods A qualitative study based on a phenomenological hermeneutic approach was applied. Six male participants with Crohn's disease and perianal fistulae were recruited from an outpatient clinic at a regional hospital, Lillebaelt hospital, Vejle and Kolding. Data were collected via semi-structured telephone interviews. The transcribed interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis as described by Graneheim and Lundman. The analysis encompassed both a manifest and a latent level. Results The analysis led to the development of five themes: 1) The disease and sexuality. Flare-ups in the participants Crohn's disease posed an obstacle to intimacy, negatively affecting their sexlife during flare-ups. The participants used problem-focused and emotional coping strategies to overcome these limitations in their relationships, regarding intimacy and sex. 2) The phases of life - importance for sexuality. Sexuality was affected at different stages in life, independent of the participants' Crohn's disease. The balance with family, relationships, small children and work life, also had an impact on the participants desire for sex and intimacy with their partner and vice versa. 3) The importance of fistulas for sexlife. Acitive fistuala negatively affected the participants' sexuality. Their masculinity was affected by erectile dysfunction, which was a common complication to surgery. 4) Sexuality - an omitted topic in healthcare dialogue. Sexuality was often an omitted topic in the healthcare dialogue, even though the topic was important to the participants. 5) Is sex taboo? Sexuality was a topic the participants considered to be impacted by taboo, which encompassed both the participants and the health care professionals. Conclusion In patients with Crohn's disease and fistulae, sexuality must be seen in a bio-psycho-social perspective. Gender roles and coping strategies are important topics to include in the health care professionals dialogue with these patients.

“Am I different?” Coping and mental health among teenagers with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A qualitative study

PurposeTo explore the stressors, coping strategies, and mental health of adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. Design and methodsThis study adopted a descriptive qualitative study design. Twelve participants were recruited from a local non-government organization in Hong Kong. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data. Verbatim transcriptions of interviews were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. The guideline of the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies was used to report the findings. ResultsFive themes were identified: “Disease- and treatment-induced changes and stressors”, “Cognitive assessment and personal perceptions”, “Behavioral and emotional coping strategies”, “Social interactions and social support”, and “Deteriorating or thriving in psychological development and well-being”. ConclusionsAdolescents with idiopathic scoliosis experienced a variety of physical and psychological stressors. It is imperative to prioritize efforts to promote adaptive coping and activate social support systems to achieve better outcomes in this population. Practical implicationsHealthcare providers should aim to comprehend the experiences of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis for improved clinical interactions and holistic care. Future research should prioritize coping-based interventions, to enhance adaptive coping behaviors and the well-being of this population.

Factors affecting quality of life among patients with corrosive injury.

This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing quality of life (QOL) among patients with corrosive injuries, considering the rising incidence of such cases, particularly in developing countries. Corrosive ingestion is a serious global public health problem and a common form of self-harm. This was a cross-sectional study using purposive sampling. A total of 82 patients with corrosive injuries who were admitted to the gastroenterology ward of a medical center in Taiwan between June 2018 and July 2020 completed the Perceived Stress Scale, Coping Strategy Scale, and World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale. We used an independent t-test and analysis of variance to examine the distribution and differences in demographic and disease characteristics, perceived stress, and the coping strategy scale. Multiple linear regression was then used to analyze the main predictors of QOL. The mean patient age was 58.2 (standard deviation = 2.4) years. A significant difference was observed between patients with a history of mental illness and perceived stress (P < .05). The patients were highly stressed and used emotional coping strategies to solve problems. Stress perception was significantly negatively correlated with overall QOL. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that a history of mental illness was a significant factor for overall QOL. The results of this study suggest that a history of mental illness significantly affects the QOL of patients with corrosive gastrointestinal injuries, and regular assessment and monitoring are essential.

Emotional coping by chance: Experiences of emotional coping strategies among on-scene commanders in the Norwegian police services

Abstract The purpose of our research is to identify the emotional coping strategies used by on-scene commanders, both to safeguard their own well-being and that of their policing colleagues. However, understanding the conditions and application of sustainable coping strategies has proven to be more complex than the literature considers. Using explorative qualitative methods, the data collection includes two studies with on-scene commanders across Norway covering minor and major incidents. We found that when on-scene commanders are left to develop their own coping strategies, they rely on random practices that can have negative long-term consequences on officers’ emotional well-being. We identified four conditions as crucial for the development of healthy emotional coping strategies: mandatory defuse and debrief practices, level of experience, social support, and leadership. The main conclusion emerging from our research is the necessary institutionalization of formal and appropriate defuse and debrief practices, including the use of colleague support and psychologists.

Psychological Resilience During Illness in Patients Recovered from Cancer

Cancer survivors face significant psychological challenges post-treatment, which necessitates an understanding of the resilience mechanisms they employ to cope and thrive. This study aims to explore the psychological resilience of cancer survivors, identifying the emotional responses, coping strategies, support systems, and personal growth experienced during and after their recovery. This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with 26 cancer survivors who had completed treatment at least six months prior. The sample included a diverse group of participants in terms of age, gender, and cancer type. Data collection aimed at theoretical saturation and analysis was conducted using NVivo software, following a grounded theory approach to identify themes and sub-themes within the narratives. Four main themes were identified: Emotional Responses, Coping Strategies, Support Systems, and Reflections and Growth. Each theme encompassed several categories with specific concepts: Emotional Responses included initial reactions, coping during treatment, and post-treatment emotions; Coping Strategies covered personal strategies, reliance on support systems, and spiritual and philosophical approaches; Support Systems highlighted the role of family and friends, healthcare providers, and community networks; Reflections and Growth focused on changes in self-perception, impact on relationships, and shifts in life philosophy. The study underscores the complexity of the resilience process among cancer survivors, revealing a broad spectrum of emotional responses, adaptive coping mechanisms, and the crucial role of support systems. The findings emphasize the need for holistic approaches in oncological care that address not only the physical but also the psychological and social aspects of cancer survivorship.