EFFECTS OF PREMENSTRUAL-SYNDROME ON COPING STYLE

Volunteers (N = 59) who met both NIMH and an adjusted DSM-III-R criter ia for moderate to severe Late Luteal Phase Dysphoric Disorder or prem enstrual syndrome (PMS) were administered the Coping Inventory for Str essful Situations (CISS) intermenstrually and premenstrually in counte rbalanced order. Participants reported significant increases in emotio n-oriented coping and significant decreases in task, avoidance, and so cial diversion-oriented coping premenstrually. Results provide more sp ecific understanding of the coping style changes which occur during PM S and, contrary to previous research, suggest that PMS stress may impa ct women in a manner which makes them less likely to use social suppor t in coping. Utilization of coping knowledge is suggested for therapis ts with clients who report difficulties resulting from PMS.