Abstract

This study focused on proactive coping, a concept that encompasses the positive and proactive aspects of coping, and we examined in detail whether coping flexibility and perceived stress mediatedthe relationship between proactive coping and stress emotions(depression and anxiety) in a sequential manner. Two hundred and eighty adults completed the PCI, COFLEX, PSS, and ESI. The results indicated that perceived stress mediated the relationship between proactive coping and stress emotions, and both coping flexibility and perceived stress mediated the relationship sequentially. These findings indicate that coping flexibility and perceived stress are factors that link proactive coping and stress emotions. The implications and limitations of this study, and suggestions for future studies were discussed.