Dealing with Hurt: An Assessment of Dispositional Style and Ethnicity in Coping Strategies

Authors

Tamra E. Cater, University of Southern MississippiFollow
Laura N. May, University of South Carolina - AikenFollow
Devin A. Byrd, South University - SavannahFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2012

School

Psychology

Abstract

This study explored differences in coping styles based on the type of hurt experienced. Participants included 398 students (291 female and 87 male), who completed a computerized assessment of dispositional hurt, coping styles, and depression. The interrelationships amongst the two hurt typologies (introjective and retaliatory), 12 coping styles, and depression then were analyzed. Results showed that people with an introjective hurt disposition were more likely to use emotional support and instrumental support than those with a retaliatory hurt disposition, who were more likely to engage in planning and humor. Moreover, ethnic differences for two coping styles emerged; specifically, African Americans were more likely to use religion, whereas Caucasians were more likely to use substances as primary coping mechanisms.

Publication Title

Current Psychology

Volume

31

Issue

2

First Page

182

Last Page

194

Recommended Citation

Cater, T. E., May, L. N., Byrd, D. A. (2012). Dealing with Hurt: An Assessment of Dispositional Style and Ethnicity in Coping Strategies. Current Psychology, 31(2), 182-194.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/89