Stress, coping techniques, and depressed affect: explorations within a normal sample

The study investigated relations between perceived stress, coping techniques, and scores on the Beck Depression Inventory for a sample of 84 undergraduates. Using Beck Depression scores as the dependent variable, analyses of variance showed significant effects for stress and three of seven coping techniques assessed: escape, dysfunctional behavior, and use of the professional health care system. Interactions of stress x dysfunctional behavior and stress x narcotizing anxiety were also noted. Some additional analyses indicated that coping techniques emphasizing ego protective attitudes (e.g., remaining hopeful, not getting down on oneself) were negatively related to Beck Depression scores.