From the theoretical perspective of this contribution, analyses of psycholo
gical adjustment and coping in holocaust survivors should not only focus on
the presence versus absence of diagnostic criteria of mental disorders. Co
ping with traumatic reminiscence in holocaust survivors is conceptualized a
s human behavior reflecting competences and resources as well as chances an
d limits of successful adjustment provided by life-long development and a g
iven status in society. On the basis of a clusteranalysis five patterns of
coping are distinguished. The number of persons characterized by specific c
oping patterns indicates that most extermination camp survivors do possess
effective coping abilities that allow them to establish or maintain a perso
nal satisfying perspective on life. Coping patterns are influenced by biogr
aphical factors as well as by specific characteristics of reminiscence, hea
lth status, social integration and financial resources.