Adaptive processes of coping, defending and mastery

Abstract

The research relevant to the study of the adaptive processes of coping and defense is examined in order to unify a fragmented body of literature. The authors emphasize an eclectic approach which utilizes theory and experimental data drawn from literature on medicine, psychoanalysis, stress and crisis, stress management, holistic health, counselling, learning, personality, child development, and socialization. The concepts underlying coping, mastery, competence, and defense are believed to be aspects of adaptation rather than competing theories. The need for research in natural settings which investigates styles of adaptation and measures the effectiveness of such styles with complex assessment techniques is emphasized. Only when the person, the environment, and their interaction are studied can research yield generalizations relevant to understanding real people in real life. In the light of rapid changes in current society, such understanding is deemed relevant and important.

Nine years in the journal

“…In the Joumal it is strongly represented in contributions by Robert H. Short (Short and Pagliaro, 1981;Short and Hess, 1983). In the Joumal it is strongly represented in contributions by Robert H. Short (Short and Pagliaro, 1981;Short and Hess, 1983).…”

Counselling as a dialectical process

“…By acting on these new formed perspectives the counsellor changes conditions intrapersonally, and at the societal level. It is evident that counselling is an interaction between a counsellor and client (Short & Hess, 1983;Short & Pagliaro, 1981). What is not clear is the latent function of the counselling psychologist.…”