coping mechanism

noun

plural coping mechanisms

: a usually conscious strategy to navigate, overcome, or adapt to emotional or psychological stressors

… my coping mechanism for change has been to embrace it early and enthusiastically to minimize and guard myself against the shock.

—Aviva Goldfarb

Teaching problem-solving skills is another important aspect of equipping children with healthy coping mechanisms.

—Elvenia Gray-Sandiford

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above