MACS-II: does coping enhance subjective control over psychotic symptoms?

OBJECTIVE Associations between subjective experience of control and the use of self-initiated coping strategies were examined in patients with psychotic symptoms. METHOD Twenty-three patients were interviewed to assess (i) the subjective experience of distress with and control over symptoms and (ii) the coping strategies used. RESULTS There was a positive association between coping type and control (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03-1.12). Active coping strategies had the strongest association with experience of control (active problem-solving: OR = 1.41 95% CI: 1.18-1.68; active problem-avoiding: OR = 1.45 95% CI: 1.18-1.68). Symptomatic coping was negatively associated with control (OR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.30-0.55), but was the most frequently used strategy. Depressive symptoms were associated with the highest number of coping strategies. CONCLUSION Coping strategies differ in the degree and direction of associated subjective control, and symptoms differ in the degree with which coping is mobilized. Assessment of coping strategies may be useful as a prelude to psychological therapy.