Which of the following coping strategies involves avoiding thoughts about distressing situations?

The correct answer is C. Distancing, which is a coping strategy that involves emotionally or psychologically detaching oneself from a distressing situation or thought. This approach allows individuals to step back and create some emotional distance from the problem, which can help in managing anxiety and stress associated with that situation. By not focusing on the distressing thoughts or feelings, individuals may find a way to cope without becoming overwhelmed by their emotions.

The other strategies have different focuses and purposes. Planning involves actively preparing for a situation to mitigate stress, seeking social support means reaching out to others for assistance or comfort, and accepting responsibility is about acknowledging one’s role in a situation and working towards resolving it. These strategies promote engagement with the situation rather than avoidance, which distinguishes them from distancing.