Exploring the relationships between object relations/reality testing functioning, coping styles, and somatic tension

In view of the importance of coping and of the apparent impact of individua l differences on coping styles, it seems appropriate to examine relationshi ps of coping with deeper and more complex psychological constructs such as those described in object relations psychology. Discovery of psychological predispositions to coping should have significant implications for both org anizational and interpersonal intervention mechanisms. This study examined the relationships among six object relations/reality testing constructs and the coping styles of positive thinking coping, interpersonal coping, avoid ance coping, direct action coping, and symptom-management coping, as well a s somatic tension. Several significant relationships were evidenced. Implic ations and suggestions for future research are presented.