Personality as the optimal predictor of coping
Stress is a natural component of life and optimal stress can encourage new growth and gaining new skills. Did you know personality is a significant predictor of the best coping strategy for you? Understanding your dominant character trait can help reveal which coping style you may be drawn towards and which coping techniques are the most beneficial for your personality type.
Researchers have coined the “Big Five” personality traits. Once you have identified the one that resonates closest to your personality, discover what coping skills may be a good match for you.
OPENNESS
Individuals who possess a high degree of openness are typically imaginative and insightful. They are willing to learn new things and enjoy the excitement that comes with new experiences.
Those with high Openness tend to accept their emotions and utilize problem-focused coping styles. While it is beneficial to be proactive when managing stress, it is important for these individuals to know when it is time to take a break and recharge. Sometimes knowing when to “close the doors” for refresh and renewal will optimize growth.
CONSCIENTIOUSNESS
Those scoring high in conscientiousness are often goal-oriented and meticulous. They enjoy having a set schedule and perform best in an organized environment.
Individuals with high Conscientiousness also utilize problem-focused coping styles but have a tendency to underuse emotion-focused coping styles. It is important for these individuals to remember that it is okay to lean on others for support and that their problems are not a burden. Remembering to connect with others will help soften the underutilized emotions. Emotions are not all bad! Emotions make us human and learning to open ourselves to others can make life feel more fulfilling!
EXTRAVERSION
Individuals ranking high in extraversion are characterized as being sociable and expressive. They gain energy by being in social situations and enjoy meeting new people.
Those with high Extraversion utilize both active coping strategies and seek social support. They tend to be more flexible and can adapt their coping responses depending on the stressor. That being said, their openness to social situations can result in uncomfortable scenarios, so it is important for them to establish boundaries for themselves. Knowing where your boundaries lie, helps guard your value system. Setting boundaries teaches others that you are not one to be used or manipulated!
AGREEABLENESS
Those possessing a high degree of agreeableness care deeply about others and can empathize easily. They are usually cooperative in times of conflict and gain happiness by helping others.
Individuals with high Agreeableness utilize both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping styles. They cope healthily with their problems by creating an action plan and seeking social support. However, they have a tendency towards altruism so they may need to be reassured that it is okay to put themselves first. Sometimes people in this group think putting themselves first is selfish, but learning how to think about your own needs also teaches others how to respect you and cherish all that you bring to relationships!
NEUROTICISM
Individuals with a high level of neuroticism are usually self-aware and emotionally reactive. Their mood often fluctuates and they can have a difficult time relaxing.
Those with high Neuroticism are more susceptible to stress and the negative emotions that come with it. While they may gravitate towards negative emotion-focused coping strategies like escape and avoidance, they may benefit from problem-focused coping techniques like planning. A simple strategy of thinking about stressful situations ahead of time to generate a game plan can reduce the unnecessary levels of stress that can rob you of joy!
Which of the Big 5 personality traits do you belong to? We know there are some fabulous coping strategies out there, what’s always worked for you?