Which of the following is NOT an adaptive coping behavior?

• A. Seeking advice
• B. Overeating
• C. Oversleeping
• D. Drinking alcohol

Answer: (D)

Coping with stress in the moment should reduce distress without creating new problems. An adaptive coping strategy helps you handle the situation constructively and supports long-term well-being. Seeking advice fits this pattern because it involves reaching out for guidance, gathering information, and problem-solving, which can lead to real solutions and added support.

Overeating and oversleeping might offer temporary relief or a distraction, but they often don’t address the underlying issue and can become patterns that harm health, energy, and functioning over time. They may feel helpful in the short term, yet they’re not effective long-term strategies.

Drinking alcohol, on the other hand, tends to provide a quick sense of relief but typically worsens stress, can lead to health and safety problems, and interferes with coping effectiveness. It masks the problem rather than solving it, making it not an adaptive coping behavior.