Title: Competency Assessment: (CU3 M2) Differentiate Between Adaptive and Nonadaptive Coping Mechanisms
Course: SkillsCom CMA 110 15.2 > Section: Credit Unit 3 Module 2

Q: Describe why and how humor can be used as a positive coping skill.
Feedback: Pointing out the amusing aspects of the problem at hand, or "positive reframing," is thought to help deal with small failures.

Q: Describe why and how seeking support can be used as a positive coping skill.
Feedback: Asking for help, or finding emotional support from family members or friends, can be an effective way of maintaining emotional health during a stressful period.

Q: Describe why and how problem-solving can be used as a positive coping skill.
Feedback: Problem solving is an instrumental coping mechanism that aims to locate the source of the problem and determine solutions. This coping mechanism is often helpful in work situations. Active problem solving strategies involve an awareness of the stressor, followed by attempts to reduce the negative outcome. By contrast, avoidant coping tendancies are characterized by ignoring the issue, often resulting in activities that aid in the denial of the problem (e.g., drinking, sleeping, isolating).

Q: Describe why and how engaging in relaxing activities, or practicing calming techniques, can be used as a positive coping skill.
Feedback: Engaging in relaxing activities, or practicing calming techniques, can help to manage stress and improve overall coping.

Q: Describe why and how regular exercise, such as running, or team sports, can be used as a positive coping skill.
Feedback: Regular exercise, such as running, or team sports, is a good way to handle the stress of given situation. This may involve yoga, meditating, progressive muscle relaxation, among other techniques of relaxation.

Q: Describe why and how adjusting expectations can be used as a positive coping skill.
Feedback: Anticipating various outcomes to scenarios in life may assist in preparing for the stress associated with any given change or event.

Q: Describe why and how denial can be used as a negative coping skill.
Feedback: Avoidance of the issue altogether may lead to denying that a problem even exists. Denial is usually maintained by distractions, such as excessive alcohol consumption, overworking, or sleeping more than usual.

Q: Describe why and how self-blame can be used as a negative coping skill.
Feedback: Internalizing the issue, and blaming oneself (beyond just taking responsibility for one's actions), leads to low-self esteem and sometimes depression.

Q: Describe why and how venting can be used as a positive coping skill.
Feedback: An externalizing coping technique, venting is the outward expression of emotions, usually in the company of friends or family. In moderation it can be healthy; however, ruminating on the negative can lead to strained relationships over time.