Misconceptions of group norms concerning coping are a risk for negative social interaction: A cross-sectional study using the vignette method

Greater use of a norm-violating coping strategy relates to higher risk of negative social interactions and to higher distress. We examined the factors that are linked to the use of a norm-violating coping strategy and those that moderate the relationship between the coping strategy used and social interaction. Results of a cross-sectional survey for 74 Japanese undergraduate students and 68 Japanese workers indicated that, in a group with frequent contact, misconceptions about group norms concerning coping strategy relate to more negative social interactions. To draw causal inferences, a replication study with a large sample from heterogeneous cultural backgrounds is necessary.