Which of the following is considered a form of distraction when coping with stress?

• A. Watching television to take your mind off stressful thoughts
• B. Practicing mindfulness to focus on the present moment
• C. Problem-solving to address the source of stress
• D. Seeking social support to talk about your feelings

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of coping strategies: Coping strategies are methods people use to manage stress and emotional discomfort. They can be broadly categorized into problem-focused coping (addressing the source of stress) and emotion-focused coping (managing emotional responses).
2. Identify what distraction means in the context of coping: Distraction involves diverting attention away from stressful thoughts or feelings temporarily, rather than confronting or resolving the stressor directly.
3. Analyze each option in terms of coping style: Practicing mindfulness involves focusing attention on the present moment, which is a form of emotional regulation rather than distraction. Problem-solving is a problem-focused coping strategy aimed at resolving the stressor. Seeking social support involves sharing feelings and gaining emotional assistance, which is also an active coping method.
4. Recognize that watching television to take your mind off stressful thoughts fits the definition of distraction because it shifts attention away from the stressor without addressing it directly.
5. Conclude that among the options, watching television is considered a form of distraction when coping with stress.