Exploring Generational Differences in Coping with Stress, Personal Growth Initiatives, and Attitudes Towards Mental Health Counseling

This study explores generational differences in coping with stress, personal growth initiatives, and attitudes toward mental health counseling by comparing Generation X and Generation Z. Using a purposive sampling method, data were collected through validated scales, including the Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psy-chological Help Scale (ATSPPHS), Personal Growth Initiative Scale-II (PGIS-II), and Coping Scale. Statistical analyses revealed significant generational variations. Generation X demonstrated a greater reliance on problem-solving and pragmatic coping strate-gies, while Generation Z favored social support, mindfulness, and expressive coping approaches (U = 2588, p < .001, rank biserial correlation = -0.482). Personal growth initiatives also differed sig-nificantly (U = 2031, p < .001, rank biserial correlation = -0.594), with Generation X prioritizing structured, career-driven growth and Generation Z emphasizing emotional well-being and self-exploration. Additionally, attitudes toward mental health counsel-ing varied notably, with Generation Z displaying greater openness to seeking professional psychological help than Generation X (t(198) = -5.50, p < .001). These findings highlight the evolving na-ture of psychological behaviors across generations, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions.