Daily diaries and minority adolescents: random coefficient regression modeling of attributional style, coping, and affect.
Many researchers underscore the importance of coping in the daily lives of adolescents, yet very few studies measure this and related constructs at this level. Using a daily diary approach to stress and coping, the current study evaluated a series of mediational coping models in a sample of low-income minority adolescents (N = 89). Specifically, coping was hypothesized to mediate the relationship between attributional style (and dimensions) and daily affect. Using random coefficient regression modeling, the relationship between (a) the locus of causality dimension and positive affect was completely mediated by the use of acceptance and humor as coping strategies; (b) the stability dimension and positive affect was completely mediated by the use of both problem-solving and positive thinking; and (c) the stability dimension and negative affect was partially mediated by the use of religious coping. In addition, the locus of causality and stability (but not globality) dimensions were also directly related to affect. However, the relationship between pessimistic explanatory style and affect was not mediated by coping. Consistent with previous research, these findings suggest that attributions are both directly and indirectly related to indices of affect or adjustment. Thus, attributions may not only influence the type of coping strategy employed, but may also serve as coping strategies themselves.
Department of Psychology, College of Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4611, USA. scroesch@sciences.sdsu.edu
Scott C
SC
Roesch
Allison A
AA
Vaughn
Arianna A
AA
Aldridge
Feion
F
Villodas
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000339:Affect; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D005006:Ethnicity / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008913:Minority Groups / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011203:Poverty / Q000523:psychology; D011340:Problem Solving; D012044:Regression Analysis; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013850:Thinking; D014956:Writing