Characteristics Flashcards
What is stress?
A state of physiological or psychological strain, caused by a mismatch between the perceived demands of a situation and our perceived ability to cope. A stressor is something that causes us to feel stressed.
Stress as a physical response:
Hans Selye carried out research on rats, found that when exposed to a stressor, the nervous system releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol releases glucose, which provies energy and adrenaline prepares the body for a fight/flight response
Stress as a psychological response:
Lazarus and Folkman proposed the transactional model of stress; stress is an interaction between the person and the environment.
Two stages:
1. Pri Appraisal: is the threat significant-harmful?
2. Sec appraisal: consideration of the resources available
Two are weighed up to determine response to stressor.
Acute Stress:
Immediate response to stress.
Most common type
Can be thrilling and exciting in small doses but too much can be exhausting and lead to emotional distress.
E.g- arguing w a friend
Episodic acute stress:
Repeated episodes of stress may be due to lifestyle or personality
e.g- exams
Chronic Stress:
Ongoing stress from things such as being in a toxic relationship or having a terrible job.
Physiological Effects of stress:
Increased blood pressure, sweaty palms, weakened immune system- can lead to infections or illnesses (coronary heart disease)
Pyschological Effects of stress:
Low self-esteem, anxiety or depression
Lifestyle:
Stress can lead to coping behaviours such as drinking and smoking, or behavioural issues like sleep disturbances or nail biting.
Eustress:
opposite of distress
Normal stress, said to be beneficial.
Short-termed and as within our copimg abilities
E.g- rollercoaster
