A classification of coping behavior based on multidimensional scaling of similarity ratings

Developed a classification of coping behavior based on people's cognition of the domain by multidimensional scaling of 87 Ss' similarity ratings of 30 coping strategies. There were five dimensions: Confrontation vs. Avoidance, Optimism vs. Realism, Seeking vs. Not Seeking Interpersonal Help, Fatalism vs. Positive Orientation, Control vs. Lack of Control by the self. A regional interpretation also was made and uses of the classification suggested.