Problem-Solving Appraisal and Coping Style: The Influence of Sex-Role Orientation and Gender

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Abstract
In this study, 138 subjects were administered the Bern Sex-Role Inventory (Bem, 1974), the Problem-Solving Inventory (Heppner, 1986), and the FIRO-Cope (Schutz, 1962) to assess the relationships among sex-role orientation, gender, problem-solving appraisal and coping style choices. Using a stepwise multiple regression approach, findings revealed that masculinity and maleness are positively related to problem-solving appraisal, confidence, and willingness to approach problem-solving situations. Choice of coping strategies was mediated by gender and sex-role orientation. Maleness was positively related to the use of denial, whereas femaleness was related to the greater utilization of turning against self. These results point to the need for a reconceptualization of androgyny and its impact on an individual's psychological well-being.