Classification of coping with stress action based on action's aim and method criterion : trial of emprical verification

The aim of the study was to verify the model of coping actions according to which four types of coping may be distinguished: assertive, avoidant, adjusting and relaxing. A group of 62 subjects aged 25 to 50 were asked questions concerning recently expe­rienced stressful event, stress intensity, coping actions and the outcome of the event. Answers concerning coping were classified independently by three judges to one of four categories proposed in the model. High index of agreement between three judges was assumed to be the criterion of the positive verification of the classification. Results show high level of agreement between the three independent judges, es­pecially in case of assertive and relaxing coping actions which were also the most frequent in the group.