What do "emotion-focused coping" strategies aim to do?

Emotion-focused coping strategies are specifically designed to help individuals manage and regulate their emotional responses to stress rather than attempting to change the stressor itself or improve productivity. These strategies focus on the emotional experience brought about by a stressor, aiming to reduce emotional distress and promote feelings of wellbeing.

For instance, someone undergoing a stressful situation may engage in activities like seeking emotional support from friends, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or using relaxation techniques. The goal is not to eliminate or address the stressor directly but to cope with the emotions tied to the stress, allowing individuals to feel more in control of their emotional responses.

Thus, this approach effectively helps individuals process their feelings, adapt to stress, and enhance their emotional resilience, ultimately leading to improved psychological health during challenging times.