Cultural Perspectives on Stress Coping: Exploring the Impact of Confucianism on Stress-coping Mechanisms Through the Lens of the Appraisal Theory of Emotion

Abstract

In this work, the nuances in the cultural variations in stress and coping were elaborated through a comparative analysis of the Appraisal Theory of Emotion and the Confucian philosophical framework. It specifically examined how Confucian beliefs, conceptualized as Confucian-compatible Thinking (CCT), influence stress responses. This research aimed not only to elucidate the efficacy of CCT in mitigating stress, but also to explore the mediating effect of Accommodative Efficacy (AE)–defined within Appraisal Theory as a dispositional belief in one’s ability to psychologically adjust to stressful situations. Using a quantitative methodology, this study recruited 132 undergraduate students at Vanderbilt University, utilizing scales to measure CCT, AE, and stress levels. Through Linear Mixed Models (LMMs), the analysis focused on evaluating the relationship between CCT and stress over time. Mediation analyses were further employed to evaluate the relationship between CCT and AE and their correlation with stress responses. The findings revealed that CCT significantly linked to lower stress levels in Western population, suggesting that these stress-buffering principles not only provide guidance to Confucian-led populations but may also be extended to Western groups. Moreover, AE did not serve as a significant mediator of the relationship between CCT and stress, indicating the unique contribution of Confucian principles in stress-coping framework, providing insights into how individuals from different cultural backgrounds may gain benefit from culturally sensitive stress regulation interventions. By extending the Appraisal Theory of Emotion to include a cultural perspective, this study contributes to a more comprehensive framework for understanding stress coping mechanisms. It highlights the importance of considering cultural factors in psychological research and practices, enlightening future research and interventions designed to improve stress regulation.