Future coping self-efficacy as proxy for resilience

Abstract

Ample evidence has documented the importance of coping self-efficacy (CSE) in predicting psychological adaptation following adversity. Prior research has shown that greater exposure to negative consequences associated with major collective traumas diminishes the perceived ability to cope. However, the impact of exposure to stressors on future CSE projections remains unknown. This longitudinal study examined individuals' self-appraisals of their coping capabilities with future adversities (future coping self-efficacy [FUTURE-CSE]) in a sample of adult Poles (N = 1245). Participants were interviewed three times from July 2021 to August 2022, during the later stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 hardships, operationalized as pandemic-related stressors and the extent of direct virus exposure, resulted in greater confidence in individuals' ability to manage future adversities effectively. These effects were observed while controlling for sociodemographic factors, psychological distress symptoms, and prior levels of the pandemic-specific CSE. Additionally, FUTURE-CSE beliefs were associated with lower levels of concurrently assessed symptoms of psychological distress. This protective function of FUTURE-CSE remained statistically significant even after controlling for prior levels of distress, pandemic-specific CSE, sociodemographic factors, COVID-19 hardships, other life challenges, and additional measures of thriving in adversity and future expectations. Many familiar maxims, such as “what doesn't kill me makes me stronger,” suggest that the painful and conflicting dynamics of accepting and learning from the past can enhance resilience and preparedness for future challenges. The results of this study provide empirical support for these notions.