Abstract

Andrew P. Smith* and Arwel James

ABSTRACT

Background: Individual differences in coping styles are important features of well-being. Certain coping styles are considered positive (e.g. problem-solving; seeking social support), whereas others, such as avoidance, wishful thinking and self-blame, are associated with negative outcomes. Many questionnaires measure coping styles, and the present study examined a single question in a sample of secondary school students and compared effects with those seen using the Student Well-being Process Questionnaire (SWPQ) negative coping scale. Methods: Eighty-two secondary school students completed the study, which involved an online survey measuring negative coping, well-being predictors and outcomes. Results: The three negative coping questions from the SWPQ loaded on a single factor, and a total negative coping score was used in the analyses. The single item and total negative coping scores were significantly correlated and showed similar associations with well-being outcomes (positive correlations with negative outcomes and negative associations with positive outcomes). When other established predictors of well-being were included in the analyses, the single-item negative coping measure remained significantly associated with negative well-being, perceived stress, anxiety and depression. Conclusions: A single-item negative coping question was associated with the three-item negative coping scale from the SWPQ and showed the expected associations with well-being outcomes. This question can now be used in shorter versions of the SWPQ.