Imagine a single parent who just lost his or her job. Describe how this mom or dad would respond to this stressor in these three ways: 1. Fight 2.Flight 3. Tend-and-befriend just one paragraph
In response to the stressor of losing their job, a single parent may exhibit different coping mechanisms. The first response, fight, involves actively confronting the situation and taking assertive actions to overcome the challenge. In this case, the single parent may immediately start searching for new employment opportunities, revising their resume, and networking to secure a stable income source. This approach is characterized by determination, resilience, and a proactive attitude towards finding a solution to the problem. The second response, flight, entails avoiding or withdrawing from the stressor. Rather than confronting the issue head-on, the single parent may choose to escape or ignore the reality of job loss. This could manifest as engaging in distracting activities, such as excessive television watching or spending excessive amounts of time on social media, as a way to cope with the stress and temporarily escape from the financial pressures. The third response, tend-and-befriend, involves seeking social support and maintaining close relationships to cope with the stressor. In this case, the single parent may turn to their support system, whether it be friends, family, or a support group, seeking emotional and practical assistance. They may engage in conversations, seeking advice and comfort, or even collaborate with others to explore job opportunities or potential sources of assistance. This response is characterized by the emphasis placed on social connections and the belief that seeking support from others can help alleviate stress and provide a sense of belonging and security.
