What does emotion-focused coping typically involve?

Emotion-focused coping primarily involves addressing emotional responses to stressors. This type of coping strategy emphasizes the management of emotions rather than trying to change or eliminate the source of stress itself. Individuals using this approach often seek to reduce their emotional distress by employing methods such as reframing the situation, expressing feelings, or engaging in activities that promote relaxation and emotional relief.

For example, someone feeling overwhelmed might choose to talk about their feelings with a friend or engage in mindfulness techniques to accept their emotions rather than trying to tackle the stressful situation directly. This strategy is particularly useful when the stressor is perceived as unavoidable or out of one's control, allowing individuals to find ways to cope with the emotional turmoil instead of attempting to resolve the external issue.