Four-year longitudinal study of behavioral changes in coping with stress.

OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between stress and coping. METHODS Short- and long-term approaches to behavioral change were evaluated in 3 groups (short-term, long-term, control). RESULTS Subjects participating in a 6-week stress management program designed to develop stress management skills reported temporary decreases in burnout, while subjects receiving additional "refresher" sessions showed decreases in burnout throughout a 4-year period. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that long-term approaches yield permanent behavioral changes.