Which term describes the concept of coping by altering external factors in one's environment?

The term that describes coping by altering external factors in one's environment is "alloplastic." This concept originates from psychological theories that differentiate two styles of coping mechanisms. Alloplastic coping involves a strategy where individuals actively change their environment or external circumstances to alleviate stress or manage challenges. For example, this could involve changing one's job, moving to a new location, or modifying one's social circles in order to improve personal well-being.

In contrast, autoplastic coping refers to making internal changes, such as adjusting one's thoughts, beliefs, or emotions, without altering the external environment. Ethnocentrism relates to the belief in the superiority of one’s own culture, which is unrelated to coping strategies. Mores are the essential customs and conventions of a society and do not pertain to personal coping mechanisms. Therefore, alloplastic is the correct choice as it directly relates to the action of modifying one's surroundings to cope with difficulties.