are not the only broad etiologic theories that inform homesickness, note that both theories hinge on control, the perception of which "reflects the fundamental human need for competence" (Skinner, 1995, p. 8). This is particularly relevant to coping, because people's choice of how to respond to a stressor hinges partly on their perception of a stressor's controllability. An equally important coping factor is social connection, which for many people is the antidote to homesickness. As the results of several studies have suggested, social connection is a powerful mediator of homesickness intensity. Ways of coping The most effective way of coping with homesickness is mixed and layered. Mixed coping is that which involves both primary goals (changing circumstances) and secondary goals (adjusting to circumstances). Layered coping is that which involves more than one method. This kind of sophisticated coping is learned through experience, such as brief periods away from home without parents. As an example of mixed and layered coping, one study revealed the following method-goal combinations to be the most frequent and effective ways for boys and girls: Doing something fun (observable method) to forget about being homesick (secondary goal) Thinking positively and feel grateful (unobservable method) to feel better (secondary goal) Simply changing feelings and attitudes (unobservable method) to be happy (secondary goal) Reframing time (unobservable method) in order to perceive the time away as shorter (secondary goal) Renewing a connection with home, through letter writing (observable method) to feel closer to home (secondary goal) Talking with someone (observable method) who could provide support and help them make new friends (primary goal) Sometimes, people will engage in wishful thinking, attempt to arrange a shorter stay or (rarely) break rules or act violently in order to be sent home. These ways of coping are rarely effective and can produce unintended negative side effects. See also Nostalgia Third culture kid Sehnsucht Hiraeth Saudade Separation anxiety disorder Culture shock References External links "Preventing and Treating Homesickness" – Direct link to the American Academy of Pediatrics clinical report published in the journal "Pediatrics" Emotions Pediatrics Travel Adjustment disorders Depression (mood)