Reality Distortions, Self Handicapping and Coping Styles among Elite Class Women
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52053/jpap.v6i4.429Keywords:
Coping Styles, Elite-class Women, Psychological Distress, Reality Distortions, Self-handicappingAbstract
The current study investigates the relationship between reality distortions, self-handicapping behaviors, and coping styles among elite-class women. A total sample of 200 participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. In this study, a correlational survey research design was employed. Standardized self-report measures were used to collect data, including the Cognitive Distortions Related to Relationships Scale (CDRS; Hamamc? & Büyüköztürk, 2004), the Self-Handicapping Scale (SHS; Jones & Rhodewalt, 1982), and a Coping Questionnaire assessing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral coping strategies. Items 2, 3, and 4 were adapted from Holahan and Moos’s (1987) Coping Strategies Scale, while additional items were adapted from Spitzberg and Cupach (2008). The purpose was to investigate how these psychological variables interact under high-stress situations that are typical of women from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. The findings of the correlational analysis showed positive correlations between cognitive distortions and coping skills, while the results show a negative, non-significant relationship between self-handicapping and cognitive distortion. Linear regression analysis also showed a significant relationship with reality distortions and self-handicapping behaviors. The t-test revealed no significant differences between genders in terms of coping strategies and self-handicapping, and distortion of reality. The research indicates the significance of adaptive coping mechanisms in reducing psychological distress in elite-class women. The weaknesses of the current study and future research suggestions are also presented. The study highlights the need for context-sensitive therapeutic approaches that address cognitive distortions and coping patterns specifically among elite-class women.
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