Ch 3 - Summary

Question 1

Emotional and behavioural responses to stressors

Answer 1

vary among individuals. Ineffective responses increase stress but can be moderated or changed.

Question 1

When confronted with a stressor,

Answer 1

the body undergoes a set of physical changes known as the fight-or-flight reaction. The sympathetic nervous system and endocrine system act on many targets in the body to prepare it for action.

Question 2

Factors that influence emotional and behavioural responses to stressors

Answer 2

include personality, cultural background, gender, and past experiences.

Question 3

The general adaptation syndrome (GAS) has three stages:

Answer 3

alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Question 4

A high allostatic load characterized by

Answer 4

prolonged or repeated exposure to stress hormones can increase a person’s risk of health problems.

Question 5

Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)

Answer 5

looks at how the physiological changes of the stress response affect the immune system and thereby increase the risk of illness.

Question 6

Health problems linked to stress include

Answer 6

cardiovascular disease (CVD), colds and other infections, asthma and allergies, cancer, flare-ups of chronic diseases, psychological problems, digestive problems, headaches, insomnia, and injuries.

Question 7

A cluster of major life events that require adjustment and accommodation

Answer 7

can lead to increased stress and an increased risk of health problems. Minor daily hassles increase stress if they are perceived negatively.

Question 8

Sources of stress associated with post-secondary education

Answer 8

may be academic, interpersonal, time-related, or financial pressures.

Question 9

Job-related stress is common,

Answer 9

particularly for employees who have little control over decisions relating to their jobs. If stress is severe or prolonged, burnout may occur.

Question 10

New and changing relationships, prejudice, and discrimination

Answer 10

are examples of interpersonal and social stressors.

Question 11

Social support systems help buffer people against the effects

Answer 11

of stress and make illness less likely. Good communication skills foster healthy relationships.

Question 12

Exercise, nutrition, sleep, and time management are

Answer 12

wellness behaviours that reduce stress and increase energy.

Question 13

Cognitive techniques for managing stress involve developing

Answer 13

new and healthy patterns of thinking, such as practising problem-solving, monitoring self-talk, and cultivating a sense of humour.

Question 14

The relaxation response is the opposite

Answer 14

of the fight-or-flight reaction.

Question 15

Techniques that trigger it, including

Answer 15

progressive relaxation, imagery, meditation, and deep breathing, counteract the effects of chronic stress.

Question 16

Counterproductive coping strategies

Answer 16

include smoking, drinking, and unhealthy eating.

Question 17

A successful individualized plan for coping with stress begins with the use of a

Answer 17

stress journal or log to identify and study stressors and inappropriate behavioural responses.

Question 18

Completing a contract and recruiting a friend can

Answer 18

help your stress-management plan succeed.

Question 19

Additional help in dealing with stress is available from

Answer 19

self-help books, peer counselling, support groups, and psychotherapy.