Table 6 Definitions of proposed dimensions
Dimension | Model | Definition | Literature | Item origins |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Problem solving | Behaviors | Actions that are oriented towards solving the problem, including recognizing and regulating emotions, acting to understand the causes of the problem and coming up with a plan or strategy to enact | Skinner et al. (2003) | Problem solving (planning), Information seeking, Emotional regulation |
Challenge- engaging | Styles | Actions that are oriented towards solving and resolving the problem, including recognizing and regulating emotions, acting to understand the causes of the problem, coming up with a plan or strategy to enact, and acting to make the situation better | Henry et al. (2019) | Problem solving (direct action and planning), Information seeking, Emotional regulation |
Cognitive restructuring | Both | Attempting to reframe a stressful experience or problem by focusing on its positive aspects and seeing it in a more positive light | Skinner et al. (2003) | Cognitive restructuring |
Support seeking | Both | Using available social resources for instrumental support to help solve the problem or alleviate the stressor and/or to help alleviate negative feelings associated with the problem or stressor | Skinner et al. (2003) | Support seeking (help seeking and comfort seeking) |
Escape (denial) | Behaviors | Avoiding the problematic environment and/or situation; denial about a problem or flight from the problem | Skinner et al. (2003) | Escape (denial) |
Disengagement | Behaviors | Acting to disengage with the problem by removing effort (i.e., not acting to solve the problem), and engaging in alternative activities that allow for mental disengagement | Skinner et al. (2003) | Helplessness, Distraction |
Challenge-Avoiding | Styles | Acting to disengage with the problem by removing effort (i.e., not acting to solve the problem), denying that the stressor has occurred, and actively avoiding situations and places that could result in re-engagement | Henry et al. (2019) | Helplessness, Escape (denial), Distraction |
Rumination (self-blame) | Styles | Focusing on the negative and damaging features of a stressful situation; this includes intrusive thoughts, negative thinking, catastrophizing, self-blame, and fear | Skinner et al. (2003) | Rumination (self-blame) |