Which term describes coping that provides a temporary relief and may be harmful?

Which term describes coping that provides a temporary relief and may be harmful?

• A. Adaptive
• B. Maladaptive
• C. Problem-focused
• D. Symbolic

Answer: (B)

Maladaptive coping describes strategies that ease distress only temporarily and can cause harm in the long run. These approaches may blunt feelings or provide quick escape, but they don’t address the underlying issue and often lead to worse health or functioning over time. For example, turning to substances to blunt anxiety about an HIV diagnosis might feel relief at first, but it can worsen adherence to treatment, strain relationships, and create new health problems. In contrast, adaptive coping—like seeking support, problem-solving the stressor, or adhering to treatment plans—offers more lasting relief and supports overall well-being. Problem-focused coping targets the problem itself, aiming for long-term resolution, while symbolic coping isn’t the standard framework used here.

Maladaptive coping describes strategies that ease distress only temporarily and can cause harm in the long run. These approaches may blunt feelings or provide quick escape, but they don’t address the underlying issue and often lead to worse health or functioning over time. For example, turning to substances to blunt anxiety about an HIV diagnosis might feel relief at first, but it can worsen adherence to treatment, strain relationships, and create new health problems. In contrast, adaptive coping—like seeking support, problem-solving the stressor, or adhering to treatment plans—offers more lasting relief and supports overall well-being. Problem-focused coping targets the problem itself, aiming for long-term resolution, while symbolic coping isn’t the standard framework used here.