There are varying ways that individuals cope when encountering stress. Some methods can be positive and some can be negative. Below is a COPING list which provides the tools that people may utilize. Select two from the list and discuss/describe their impact along with the pros and cons connected to this coping mechanism. For example, some may use substances to relieve the stress. This can lead to addiction and open the door to negative consequences. We can also see that venting is on the list. This can have both positive and negative effects.

COPE Inventory scale of coping techniques

• positive reinterpretation and growth
• mental disengagement
• focus on and venting of emotions
• use of instrumental social support
• active coping
• denial
• religious coping
• humour
• behavioural disengagement
• restraint
• use of emotional social support
• substance use
• acceptance
• suppression of competing activities
• planning