Stress Appraisal and Coping in Mothers of NICU Infants

In this study, we assessed the coping process in 35 mothers of premature and at-risk infants using a cognitive-behavioral theory to examine the relation among the stressful event, appraisal of the event, coping, and psychological symptomatology. Results show that 60% of the participants presented with clinically significant levels of distress. Tests of additional hypotheses and research questions addressed the role of appraisals and coping strategies. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that 58% (adjusted R&sub2) of the variance in distress was explained by four variables. The appraisal of uncontrollability, confrontive coping, and escape-avoidant coping were predictive of increased distress. The coping strategy of accepting responsibility was predictive of decreased distress. Satisfaction with the child's physician was a significant indicator of better functioning.