Do managers cope productively? A comparison between Australian middle level managers and adults in the general community

This study investigates the relationship between workplace context and how people cope with their concerns. It does so by examining the coping behaviour of a group of 137 Australian middle managers within one organisation and 236 community‐based adults, none of whom were managers. In general, the managers, irrespective of gender and age, are more likely to respond to their general concerns by applying themselves and engaging in problem solving. They are less likely to engage in non‐productive strategies like worry, letting off steam and wishful thinking. Whether those selected as managers are people who use different coping strategies to others, or whether immersion in the corporate climate leads to development of specific coping strategies, is discussed.