Which statement best distinguishes active coping from accommodative coping?

• A. Active coping changes a stressor; accommodative coping adapts oneself to a stressor.
• B. Active coping adapts to a stressor; accommodative coping changes a stressor.
• C. Both involve changing the stressor in some way
• D. Neither involves adapting to the environment

Answer: (A)

Active coping aims to change the stressor itself through direct action or problem-solving, while accommodative coping focuses on adapting to the stressor by changing one’s own response, perceptions, or goals rather than altering the external situation. The best statement reflects this distinction: active coping changes the stressor, whereas accommodative coping adapts the person to the stressor.

For example, if a workload becomes overwhelming, active coping would involve requesting a deadline extension, re-prioritizing tasks, or delegating responsibilities to reduce the source of stress. Accommodative coping would involve accepting that the heavy workload is a given and adjusting goals, re-framing the situation, or managing emotions to cope with it.

The idea that both involve changing the stressor is inaccurate because accommodative coping does not seek to alter the environment; it emphasizes adaptation within the person’s mindset or behavior. Conversely, suggesting that neither involves adapting to the environment overlooks the adaptive shift central to accommodative coping.