title: Stressful events and coping responses among older adults in two sociocultural groups.
abstract: In this study of the way 32 men and women between the ages of 60 to 90 coped with stressful situations, two instruments were used: the Life Experiences Survey and the Ways of Coping Checklist. Overall, health-related concerns were more frequently reported by older adults than any other stressful event. When coping responses were categorized according to four modes--intrapsychic, inaction, direct action, and information seeking--the Appalachian group was found to use the information-seeking mode; the Cherokee group, the intrapsychic mode. Significant differences were found between males and females in coping modes and life-stress categories. When groups were combined, significant correlations were noted between life stress, particularly health-related stress, and the coping modes of intrapsychic and information seeking.
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged / Q000523:psychology*; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D003469:Culture; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American / Q000523:psychology*; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012931:Social Environment; D014481:United States