Which statement best describes adaptive coping?

Which statement best describes adaptive coping?

• A. It avoids all stressors entirely
• B. It includes positive activities that reduce tension
• C. It is always easy and immediate
• D. It relies solely on denial

Answer: (B)

Adaptive coping means using constructive, active strategies to handle stress rather than avoiding it or pretending it doesn’t matter. Including positive activities that reduce tension fits this idea well because it directly lowers the body's stress response and helps maintain functioning, mood, and engagement with daily life or health care. Examples include exercising, engaging in hobbies, practicing relaxation techniques, and seeking social support—all of which can ease distress and improve resilience. In contrast, trying to avoid stressors entirely isn’t realistic or beneficial in the long run, and denial can prevent problem-solving and treatment adherence. For someone living with HIV/AIDS, adaptive coping supports emotional well-being and helps sustain consistent self-care and medical follow-through, which is why this description is the most accurate.

Adaptive coping means using constructive, active strategies to handle stress rather than avoiding it or pretending it doesn’t matter. Including positive activities that reduce tension fits this idea well because it directly lowers the body's stress response and helps maintain functioning, mood, and engagement with daily life or health care. Examples include exercising, engaging in hobbies, practicing relaxation techniques, and seeking social support—all of which can ease distress and improve resilience.

In contrast, trying to avoid stressors entirely isn’t realistic or beneficial in the long run, and denial can prevent problem-solving and treatment adherence. For someone living with HIV/AIDS, adaptive coping supports emotional well-being and helps sustain consistent self-care and medical follow-through, which is why this description is the most accurate.