The Proactive Coping Inventory (PCI):
A Multidimensional Research Instrument

  1. THE PROACTIVE COPING SUBSCALE

1

I am a "take charge" person.

2

I try to let things work out on their own. (-)

3

After attaining a goal, I look for another, more challenging one.

4

I like challenges and beating the odds.

5

I visualise my dreams and try to achieve them.

6

Despite numerous setbacks, I usually succeed in getting what I want.

7

I try to pinpoint what I need to succeed.

8

I always try to find a way to work around obstacles; nothing really stops me.

9

I often see myself failing so I don't get my hopes up too high. (-)

10

When I apply for a position, I imagine myself filling it.

11

I turn obstacles into positive experiences.

12

If someone tells me I can't do something, you can be sure I will do it.

13

When I experience a problem, I take the initiative in resolving it.

14

When I have a problem, I usually see myself in a no-win situation. (-)

1

I imagine myself solving difficult problems.

2

Rather than acting impulsively, I usually think of various ways to solve a problem.

3

In my mind I go through many different scenarios in order to prepare myself for different outcomes.

4

I tackle a problem by thinking about realistic alternatives.

5

When I have a problem with my co-workers, friends, or family, I imagine beforehand how I will deal with them successfully.

6

Before tackling a difficult task I imagine success scenarios.

7

I take action only after thinking carefully about a problem.

8

I imagine myself solving a difficult problem before I actually have to face it.

9

I address a problem from various angles until I find the appropriate action.

10

When there are serious misunderstandings with co-workers, family members or friends, I practice before how I will deal with them.

11

I think about every possible outcome to a problem before tackling it.

1

I often find ways to break down difficult problems into manageable components.

2

I make a plan and follow it.

3

I break down a problem into smaller parts and do one part at a time.

4

I make lists and try to focus on the most important things first.

4. PREVENTIVE COPING SUBSCALE

1

I plan for future eventualities.

2

Rather than spending every cent I make, I like to save for a rainy day.

3

I prepare for adverse events.

4

Before disaster strikes I am well-prepared for its consequences.

5

I plan my strategies to change a situation before I act.

6

I develop my job skills to protect myself against unemployment.

7

I make sure my family is well taken care of to protect them from adversity in the future.

8

I think ahead to avoid dangerous situations.

9

I plan strategies for what I hope will be the best possible outcome.

10

I try to manage my money well in order to avoid being destitute in old age.

5. INSTRUMENTAL SUPPORT SEEKING SUBSCALE

1

When solving my own problems other people's advice can be helpful.

2

I try to talk and explain my stress in order to get feedback from my friends.

3

Information I get from others has often helped me deal with my problems.

4

I can usually identify people who can help me develop my own solutions to problems.

5

I ask others what they would do in my situation.

6

Talking to others can be really useful because it provides another perspective on the problem.

7

Before getting messed up with a problem I'll call a friend to talk about it.

8

When I am in trouble I can usually work out something with the help of others.

6. EMOTIONAL SUPPORT SEEKING SUBSCALE

1

If I am depressed I know who I can call to help me feel better.

2

Others help me feel cared for.

3

I know who can be counted on when the chips are down.

4

When I'm depressed I get out and talk to others.

5

I confide my feelings in others to build up and maintain close relationships.

7. AVOIDANCE COPING SUBSCALE

1

When I have a problem I like to sleep on it.

2

If I find a problem too difficult sometimes I put it aside until I'm ready to deal with it.

3

When I have a problem I usually let it simmer on the back burner for a while.