This independent view can help you develop a better understanding of yourself. Stressmastery is not an absolute behavior, and there are no right or wrong answers. Most of us change our behaviors according to the particular environment we're in. For example, we often respond differently to stressors at work, play, and at home. If there are differences in your overall scores or on specific questionnaire items, you may each be thinking of how you behave in different situations.
Some people appear calm at work yet are inwardly angry at themselves or others.
Barred from expressing angry statements or behaviors, such individuals carry home these feelings and thoughts. Common stress behaviors include screaming at children or spouses, or conversely, becoming withdrawn and depressed. Your task is to determine if there is a problem for you and, if so, take appropriate action to solve it. If you and your companion's tests received similar scores, this may mean that both of you are viewing your stressmastery skills in the same way. At least, you have some validation of how you responded to the questionnaire from a person who knows you well.