Description

The Adolescent Coping Orientation for Problem Experiences (ACOPE-54) is a psychometric tool designed to measure the coping strategies that adolescents use when facing problems and challenges in their lives. The tool assesses various aspects of adolescents’ perception and reaction to difficult situations, thereby providing an overview of how they manage stress and challenges.

Analysis and Data Usage

Data Collection: Adolescents complete the questionnaire by responding to questions related to the strategies they use to cope with problems. Answers are usually given on a Likert scale (e.g., from “very rarely” to “very often”).
Data Processing: Responses are collected and scored for each item. The scores are aggregated to calculate the overall coping strategy, as well as sub-strategies if available.
Data Interpretation: The analysis of results reveals patterns in the use of coping strategies among adolescents. It helps identify which strategies are more or less effective, as well as potential areas requiring further support or intervention.
Application: The results can be used by educators, psychologists, and counselors to develop programs and interventions that help adolescents improve their coping strategies and mental health.

Purpose

The main objectives of the Adolescent Coping Orientation for Problem Experiences (ACOPE-54) are:
Coping Strategy Assessment: To measure which strategies adolescents use to cope with problems and how these strategies affect their ability to manage stress and challenges.
Understanding Stress Management: To understand how adolescents manage stress and challenges, and which strategies are most useful or necessary.
Enhancing Support: To provide data for the development of programs that strengthen adolescents’ coping strategies and propose interventions that improve their mental well-being.

Calibration

Scoring: Each questionnaire item is scored based on the adolescents’ responses. Scores are aggregated to produce an overall coping score and, potentially, scores for specific strategies if the tool includes them.
Statistical Analysis: The reliability and validity of the tool are examined through statistical methods such as internal consistency (e.g., Cronbach’s alpha) and factor analysis to confirm construct components.
Normative Data: Scores are compared with normative data to interpret individual and group coping strategies in relation to the broader adolescent population.

Bibliography

Frydenberg, E., & Lewis, R. (1993). Adolescent Coping: Theoretical and Research Perspectives. Routledge.
Carver, C. S., Scheier, M. F., & Weintraub, J. K. (1989). Assessing Coping Strategies: A Theoretically Based Approach. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 56(2), 267–283.
Compas, B. E., Connor-Smith, J., Saltzman, H., Thomsen, A. H., & Wadsworth, M. E. (2001). Coping with Stress During Childhood and Adolescence: Problems, Progress, and Potential. Psychological Bulletin, 127(1), 87–127.
Lazarus, R. S., & Folkman, S. (1984). Stress, Appraisal, and Coping. Springer Publishing Company.