Ways of coping and problem solving in individuals with bipolar affective disorder: A gender comparison

Abstract

Background: Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPAD) is an episodic mental illness with varying degrees of remission period. People suffering with BPAD experiences difficulties in adapting and adjusting in their day-to-day life stresses while using coping strategies and problem-solving strategies. People suffering from BPAD from different genders may show different style of coping and problem-solving strategies. Aim: Thus, the study aimed at assessing gender difference on ways of coping and problem-solving in individuals with BPAD. Methodology: The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study with purposive sampling technique selecting 60 respondents from in-patient and out-patient department of a psychiatric hospital in India. Socio-demographic data sheet, Ways of Coping Skills and Problem-Solving Questionnaire was administered to collect data. Descriptive statistics and t-test was used to assess the aim of the study. Result: Study results shows no significant gender difference on ways of coping and problem-solving skills among persons suffering with BPAD. There was significant low coping skills and problem-solving skills in the respondents. Conclusion: The study concludes that people from both the genders suffering from BPAD have low levels of coping and problem-solving skills.