Which coping classifications—problem versus emotion or engaged versus disengaged—best predict psychological distress in individuals with cardiac diseases? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Disengaged and emotion-focused coping strategies were consistently associated with greater psychological distress among cardiac patients. In contrast, engaged and problem-focused strategies had weaker and more variable associations. Overall, the engaged-disengaged classification was a better predictor of emotional distress in this population. Findings emphasize the need to target maladaptive coping in interventions for individuals with cardiac diseases. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).