Cognitive appraisal theory provides another
explanation of how people cope. This theory,
presented in 1984 by Lazarus and Folkman,
suggests that when faced with a change to
their situation people assess both its potential
threat and their ability and resources
to manage it.18 Successful coping is
dependent on accurate appraisal of the
change and possession of the necessary
skills and resources to deal with it.6
Cognitive theory goes on to state that there
are two types of coping strategies: problem
focused, which is aimed at managing or
altering the problem, for instance, confronting
the situation or seeking information
about it; and emotion focused, which is
directed at reducing emotional distress
but does not tackle the problem, such as
avoidance, distancing, or self-blame