lecture 17: the power of life events Flashcards
stress and coping paradigm
viewing stress not as an environmental stimulus or as a response but as the interaction of a thinking person and an event
primary appraisal
categorizes events into three groups based on significance they have for our well being.
secondary appraisal
evaluates our perceived ability to cope with harm, threat, or challenge
appraisal
involves making a new primary or secondary appraisal resulting from changes in the situation
coping
attempts to deal with stressful events. the process of managing stress and challenges
problem-focused coping/approach
involves attempts to tackle the problem head-on
emotions-focused coping/approach
involves dealing with one’s feelings about the stressful event
person-environment interaction
means behavior is a function of both the person and the environment
competence
is defined as the upper limit of a person’s ability to function in five domains: physical health, sensory-perceptual skills, motor skills, cognitive skills, and ego strength.
environmental press
the physical, interpersonal, or social demands that environments put on people
adaptation
developmental changed resulting from successful management of stress and challenges
adaptation level
behavior and effect are normal
proactivity
when people choose new behaviors to meet new desired or needs, and exert control over their lives
docility
people allow the situation to dictate the options they have and have little control
Preventive adaptations:
actions that avoid stressors and increase or build social resources
