Describe the differences between problem-focused and emotion-focused coping

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: Optimists and pessimists use different coping strategies. For the most part, those used by optimists are more successful. One of the differences between the two styles is that optimists tend to use problem-focused coping and pessimists tend to use emotion-focused. Problem-focused coping is a process in which the individual attempts to do something concrete about his or her situation. This may include trying a new technique, asking friends for help or advice, etc. The most salient feature of this type of coping is that it involves doing something to fix the situation through active involvement in the problematic situation. This is in contrast to emotion-focused problem solving in which many pessimists try to reduce their stress by asking friends for emotional support, or turning to religion in an attempt to feel better. What is not generally involved in this strategy is any attempt to directly attack the problem situation. They fail to take constructive steps to fix the situation.