Utilized 2 studies of coping among 406 community-dwelling adults (aged 21-91 yrs) to examine the influence of personality on coping responses, the perceived effectiveness of coping mechanisms, and the effects of coping and personality on well-being. Potential stressors were categorized as losses, threats, or challenges. The personality dimensions of neuroticism, extraversion, and openness to experience, as measured by both self-reports and spouse- and peer-ratings, were related to coping mechanisms. There was agreement across types of stressors on the use and perceived effectiveness of the 27 coping mechanisms. Ss who used more effective ways of coping generally reported higher subsequent happiness and life satisfaction, although this association was reduced when personality measures were partialled out.