Question

Paul is stressed with the new corporate reorganization. he now reports to a foreign office that has usurped many of his responsibilities, including the contract labor for his projects, therefore he's working with less qualified and new contractors with whom he doesn't have a relationship. however, the managers of the other departments find themselves in the same boat and every day they are able to laugh over lunch about their new managerial impotence. ________ is helping paul handle his stress.

Answer 1

Social support is helping Paul handle his stress.

(Sounds to me like Paul needs a vacation.)