Introduction
Stress is a multifaceted concept that involves physiological, psychological, and social dimensions. Understanding these aspects is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of how stress impacts individuals and how it can be managed effectively. This study note will delve into each of these dimensions, explaining the underlying mechanisms and providing examples to illustrate key points.
Physiological Aspects of Stress
General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)
Hans Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is a well-known model that explains the physiological responses to stress. It consists of three stages:
- Alarm Reaction: The body recognizes the stressor and initiates a fight-or-flight response. This involves the release of adrenaline and cortisol, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and energy supplies.
- Resistance: If the stressor persists, the body tries to adapt to the stressor. While the physiological responses continue, they are less intense than in the alarm stage.
- Exhaustion: Prolonged exposure to the stressor depletes the body's resources, leading to decreased immunity and increased vulnerability to illness.
$$ \text{Stages of GAS: Alarm \rightarrow Resistance \rightarrow Exhaustion} $$
TipMnemomics can help you remember the order of the GAS stages: take the first letter of each stage - Alarm, Resistance, Exhaustion, and you ARE exhausted by the end of it.
Impact on the Immune System
Prolonged stress can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. For example, Kiecolt-Glaser et al. (1984) found that medical students had lower immune function during exams compared to less stressful periods.
ExampleIn Kiecolt-Glaser’s study, medical students with social support had more effective immune systems than those without support, illustrating the interplay between physiological and social aspects of stress.
Psychological Aspects of Stress
Cognitive Appraisal Theory
Richard Lazarus's Cognitive Appraisal Theory emphasizes the role of individual perception in stress response. According to this theory, stress is a result of the individual's appraisal of a situation as threatening or challenging.
- Primary Appraisal: The individual evaluates the significance of the stressor. Is it a threat, a challenge, or benign?
- Secondary Appraisal: The individual assesses their resources and ability to cope with the stressor.
$$ \text{Stress Response} = \text{Primary Appraisal} + \text{Secondary Appraisal} $$
NoteUnderstanding the Cognitive Appraisal Theory is crucial for recognizing that stress is not solely determined by external events but also by how individuals interpret and respond to these events.
