Coping with challenge in adolescence: a conceptual model and psycho-educational intervention

Abstract

This paper presents a conceptual model for understanding the nature, timing, synchronicity and impact of developmental stressors and their implications for adolescent mental health trajectories. The model is derived, in part, from a longitudinal program of research investigating the development of adolescent mental health. Developments in the areas of life-span development, developmental psychopathology, and stress and coping also inform the model. In this model, stressors are viewed as challenges to the coping responses and resources of adolescents. Some challenges can be risks to adolescent mental health while others can be opportunities for further growth and development. Moderators of the association between challenge and mental health outcomes include internal/personal and external/interpersonal resources. This model has led to a psycho-educational program to enhance coping and reduce depression. Its design and some preliminary results from a longitudinal study of the short- and long-term effectiveness of the program in enhancing adolescent mental health are described.