Brief Description

This is a self-report scale consisting of 52 items. Respondents are asked to indicate the extent to which they typically use certain strategies when dealing with stressful situations. The scale is based on the multidimensional model of coping and can be completed by reflecting on how the individual generally responds to difficult or pressure-filled situations. Its theoretical structure includes nine distinct types of coping strategies: assertive behavior, aggressive behavior, passive behavior, submissive behavior, avoidance, control, social approach, impulsivity, and positive reappraisal.

Purpose

The scale was developed to assess the strategies individuals adopt to manage difficult situations, particularly those that involve high levels of stress, pressure, or conflict. It examines the type and quality of coping strategies used and their contribution to the individual’s ability to adapt effectively.

Scoring Method

Scoring is based on summing the responses corresponding to each subscale. Each of the nine strategies is calculated by adding scores from specific items. For example, assertive behavior (SACS1) is assessed through items 1, 10, 15, 25, 26, 30, 50, 51, and 52, while aggressive behavior (SACS2) corresponds to items 3, 8, 9, 14, 20, and 33. Some subscales require reverse scoring for certain items, such as items 7, 23, 24, 30, and 41.

Validity

Correlations with other variables and psychological characteristics indicate that the subscales demonstrate good construct validity. Research findings have shown that the scale accurately reflects the different dimensions of coping strategies and that the individual strategies are associated with distinct behavioral patterns and responses to stressful stimuli.

Reliability

The reliability of the scale, measured by Cronbach’s alpha for the nine subscales, ranges from 0.59 to 0.88, indicating satisfactory to high internal consistency for most subscales. The psychometric evaluation was conducted on a representative sample of Greek adults.

Data Analysis and Use

Data from the scale can be analyzed using descriptive statistics and factor analysis to verify the internal structure of the scale or to identify correlations between coping strategies and demographic or psychological variables. The scale can be used in both research and clinical settings to assess coping effectiveness, guide psychotherapeutic interventions, or support comparative studies across population groups.

References

Hobfoll, S. E., Dunahoo, C. L., & Monnier, J. (1993). Preliminary Test Manual: Strategic Approach to Coping. Unpublished test manual, Kent State University.
Roussi, P., & Vassilaki, E. (2001). The applicability of the Multiaxial Model of Coping to the Greek population. Anxiety, Stress, and Coping: An International Journal, 14, 125–148.