When it comes to the question of whether or not "cope" is a positive or negative thing, the answer is not so straightforward. On the one hand, coping is a necessary skill for humans to develop in order to make it through difficult or challenging situations. It allows us to endure difficulties, while at the same time, look for ways to solve or manage the issue. In this sense, it can be seen as a positive thing.
On the other hand, if we are constantly relying on coping strategies to get by, this could be seen as a negative thing. For instance, if we rely on unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or self-harm, we can not only fail to properly address the underlying issue, but also cause more harm to ourselves.
Ultimately, whether or not coping is positive or negative depends on the individual and the situation. It can be a valuable tool when used in the right circumstances, but it can also be detrimental if used improperly.