What are bad coping skills?

Bad coping skills, otherwise called maladaptive coping strategies, are harmful and/or ineffective thoughts or actions generally categorized as problem-avoidance strategies. Individuals who are trying to avoid a problem may engage themselves in activities that distract themselves from thoughts and stresses related to the problem.

Common problematic coping strategies may involve one or more of the following: 

  • Outright denial that the problem exists

  • Blaming others

  • Gambling

  • Procrastination

  • Excessive video gaming

  • Substance abuse

  • Sex addiction

  • Eating disorders

  • Excess spending

  • Hyperfocusing on activities, subjects, or people

  • Self-harm

  • Attempted or completed suicide


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