FEATURES OF COPING STRATEGIES FOR STRESS MANAGEMENT AMONG SPECIALISTS OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTERS

Abstract

The study examines the psychological characteristics of coping strategies used by employees of child development centers under conditions of professional stress. The aim of the research was to identify the leading strategies for managing the consequences of stress and emotional exhaustion among specialists working with preschool-aged children.

The empirical study involved 52 employees of child development centers. Data were collected using standardized instruments for assessing coping strategies (based on the approach of R. Lazarus and S. Folkman), as well as tools for diagnosing levels of stress and indicators of emotional burnout.

The results indicate that the participants predominantly use emotion-focused and avoidance coping strategies, which correlate with higher levels of tension and emotional exhaustion. Statistically significant relationships were found between the use of adaptive problem-focused strategies and lower levels of professional stress.

The findings highlight the importance of systematic support for professionals working in the field of child development, as well as the need to implement corrective and developmental programs aimed at fostering resilience and promoting constructive coping strategies. Such interventions contribute to maintaining the psychological well-being of specialists and improving the quality of their interactions with children and parents in the professional environment.