Relationship between Life Change and Illness in Coping versus Sensitive Persons

Abstract

A linear regression equation for the relationship between life change and illness for 281 college students was used to select subjects from the quartile showing less illness than predicted (coping subjects, n = 34) and from the quartile showing more illness than predicted (sensitive subjects, n = 20). Comparisons between groups on the number and use of social supports and on the K, 1, 2, and 3 scales of the MMPI showed no significant differences in social support. The sensitive subjects were higher on scales 1 and 3 of the MMPI but not different on K or 2. The results were discussed in terms of strategies for dealing with stress which are reflected in a 1, 3 elevation on the MMPI.