THE TEACHER AS CLASSROOM MANAGER
TAM2601
ASSESSMENT 2 S1 2023 - Unique # 723909
Question 1
1.1. Critically analyse and discuss the possible coping strategies for handling
stress.
The coping strategies used to deal with crises, conditions, and demands that are
considered to be distressing or stressful are behavioural and cognitive strategies.
Problem focused coping is to address problems or take measures that can shift the
source of stress. At the other end of the spectrum is emotion focused coping, which
focuses on reducing or managing the emotional distress that results from the crisis.
Some emotion-focused coping strategies include wishful thinking, distancing,
avoidance, and positive reappraisal.
Depending on the situation, the effectiveness of any particular strategy for coping will
vary. Problem focused strategies are usually used when constructive measures can be
taken, whereas emotion focused coping is used when people feel that the situation
cannot change and must be maintained. Generally, stress response strategies that
focus on problem solving rather than emotion tactics are considered to be more
effective in managing stress.
Emotion-focused coping tends to increase emotional distress, in part, because attention
is directed toward the emotional experience rather than appraising and problem-solving
during the stressful situation (Sears, Urizar, & Evans, 2000). Individuals who use
emotion-oriented coping as their primary coping strategy tend to have higher levels of
depression, depersonalization, and emotional exhaustion, and lower levels of personal
accomplishment (McWilliams, Cox, & Enns, 2003; Sears., 2000).
According to (Clarke, 2006; Skinner, 2003; Folkman & Moskowitz, 2005) coping
strategies are listed in table below:
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, TAM2601 ASSESSMENT 2 S1 2023 – UNIQUE # 723909
TABLE 1. Coping Strategies and Type of Responses
Coping Strategies Type of Responses
Problem Solving or Active Strategies Work on solving the problem in the
situation
Make a plan for action and follow up
Emotional Expression and Emotional Let emotion out; get in touch with
Regulation Strategies feelings and let them out
Let someone know about my feelings
Keep emotions under control by
performing appeasing activities
Cognitive restructuring, reorganising the
way I look at the situation
Seeking Understanding Strategies Try to understand or find meaning of the
situation; looking for learning
Help-seeking Strategies and Support- Seeking instrumental aid or advice from
seeking Strategies others
Seeking comfort or understanding from
others
Problem Avoidance Strategies and Acting like nothing had happened
Distraction Strategies Avoid thinking or doing anything about
the problem
Leaving the scenario and staying away
from the stressful situation
Efforts to avoid thinking about the
problem situation by using distraction or
entertainment activities
There are many coping strategies for handling stress. The most important first step is to
decide whether you need professional help or whether self-help is enough (Minnaar &
De Kock, 2003). Sharman (1995) provides the following model of stress management
techniques:
Eliminate or modify stressors in your environment.
Alter your perceptions of stressors.
Change your own stress-producing behaviour.
Alter aspects of your lifestyle.
Regularly practise relaxation techniques.
Air your concerns in a supportive environment.
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