Coping among adolescents: Differences and interaction effects of gender, age, and supportive social relationships in Arab culture

To address the role of gender, social support, and age in coping among Arab adolescents in Jordan. A cross-sectional correlational design was used. The sample included 474 adolescents aged 11–18 years old from five public, four private, and two UNRWA United Nations Relief and Works Agency schools. Perceived Social Support (PSS) Scale and Coping Response Inventory-Youth were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics, T-test, one-way ANOVA, two-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation were used to analyze data. Among approach coping strategies, positive reappraisal was used the most (M = 15.05, SD = 4.21), and seeking guidance and support was used the least (M = 13.61, SD = 4.18). Among avoidance coping strategies, seeking alternative rewards was used the most (M = 14.96, SD = 4.03), while cognitive avoidance and acceptance or resignation were used the least (M = 13.98, SD = 3.77). Girls used avoidance and approach coping strategies at higher levels than boys. Significant interactions were found in seeking alternative rewards, positive reappraisal, and logical analysis according to age and gender. Adolescents used approach and avoidance coping with almost equal levels. However, girl adolescents used approach and avoidance coping at higher levels than boys. Significant differences were found in coping strategies according to social support.