constructive coping
any instrumental approach to stress management that is generally considered to be adaptive or otherwise positive. Examples include planning and strategizing, seeking help and support from others, reframing the situation, and meditating. Constructive coping strategies are task relevant and action oriented and are divided into one of three categories: problem-focused coping, emotion-focused coping, and appraisal-focused coping. They rely on realistic assessments of stressors and available coping resources, and their use is associated with better physical and mental health outcomes than the use of other strategies (e.g., active coping, passive coping, defense mechanisms). Research suggests that constructive coping is likely to be used when stressors are of high intensity or when there is little negative emotional arousal generated in the context of the stressful experience or event.