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Related Experiment Videos

The development of coping resources in adulthood

C M Aldwin1, K J Sutton, M Lachman

  • 1Department of Human and Community Development, University of California, Davis 95616, USA. CMALDWIN@UCDAVIS.EDU

Journal of Personality
|December 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary

Adults draw on diverse past experiences, not just similar stressful episodes, to develop coping resources. Perceiving advantages from difficult times positively influences long-term effects and mastery.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Adult Development
  • Stress and Coping

Background:

  • Stressful episodes are theorized to foster personal growth and resource development.
  • Understanding the long-term impact of adversity on adult coping is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if stressful episodes serve as a context for developing adult coping resources.
  • To examine the relationship between past experiences, coping strategies, and long-term psychological outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Three community-based studies were conducted with large adult samples.
  • Data collection involved surveys, content analysis of prior experiences, semistructured interviews, and path analyses.
  • Participants reported on past stressful episodes and current coping mechanisms and psychological states.

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Main Results:

  • A high percentage of adults utilized diverse prior experiences, not exclusively similar stressful events, for coping.
  • Long-term effects of difficult life periods were reported by a majority, with perceived advantages linked to positive outcomes.
  • Coping strategies influenced perceived outcomes, which in turn affected mastery and depression levels.

Conclusions:

  • Past stressful experiences contribute to the development of adult coping resources, though not always directly.
  • The perception of benefits from adversity is a significant factor in positive long-term psychological adjustment.
  • Stress and coping mechanisms play a role in shaping personality and psychological well-being in adulthood.