An analogy has been established (Plutchick R., 1995)between the coping process and 8 basic defense mechanisms (conceived as rigid unconsciousmechanisms with limited adaptive values, e.g. repression, denial, etc.). It was also notedthat the coping process is a more flexible conscious adaptive mechanism. For example, forthe unconscious mechanism of denial, the cognitive coping strategy is minimization. Thisauthor tries to fill the gap between the psychoanalytical theory and recent advances incognitive sciences.

Ionescu S. et al. (1997) suggests that anintegrative approach could lead to a new adaptation theory providing a global view ofpsychological function. For these authors, an epistemological approach is required becauseof the wide diversity of defense or coping mechanisms described in the DSM4classification.

Subjects first have to cope with the outside world inorder to develop intrapsychic mechanisms allowing temporary self-preservation (living ordying), then must develop a more elaborated conscious coping process capable of dealingwith both internal and external reality.