A cross-sectional comparison of perceived stress and emotional affect
between adults with and without emotional disturbances using a novel
coping strategy.
Abstract
Perceived stress has increased due to the COVID-19
pandemic. In addition, those with diagnosed emotional disturbances note
higher perceived stress ratings than those without these conditions.
Emotion-focused coping can be a practical adjunctive component with
problem-based solutions during elevated stress. However, it is unknown
if there are differences in perceived stress levels and emotional affect
in adults with and without emotional disturbances using a novel
emotion-focused coping strategy. A cross-sectional study of 97 adults
using the novel strategy completed an online survey of the Perceived
Stress Scale (PSS-10) and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS).
Group one (NEDG) included 34 individuals without a history of emotional
disturbance. Group two (EDG) included 63 individuals reporting an
emotional disturbance (Anxiety; N= 58 & Depression; N=5). There was no
significant difference in perceived stress between the NEDG (17.6
+ 5.3) and EDG (17.0 +
5.5) groups. Moreover, there were no significant
differences in PANAS between groups. Positive affect was in the 51st
percentile (95 % CI: 45.7-56.6%), and negative affect was in the 74th
percentile (95% CI: 70.4-78.9%) of normative data. Individuals with or
without emotional disturbance may experience similar perceived stress
levels and emotional affect while using a novel coping strategy.
Additional research investigating this novel strategy is warranted.