Stress Management: Stress Inoculation Therapy

Question 1

What is SIT and how does it work?

Answer 1

SIT is a method of stopping stress from occurring in the first place. It works by ‘inoculating’ the individual against future stressful situations.

Question 2

Name the three phases of SIT in order.

Answer 2

1. Conceptualisation
2. Skills training and rehearsal
3. Application and follow through

Question 3

What happens in the conceptualisation stage?

Answer 3

Stress is viewed as a problem to be solved. Therapist and patient/client pick out sources of stress in the patient’s life. The therapist may challenge the patient’s thinking or ask them to provide evidence for their beliefs.

Question 4

What happens in the skills training and rehearsal stage?

Answer 4

Patient learns individual techniques to reduce stress. Skills such as relaxation are taught and coping self-statements such as ‘one step at a time’ are used. This helps the client to think differently about their problem. This is practiced in the clinic.

Question 5

What happens in the application and follow through stage?

Answer 5

Clients are given opportunities to apply the skills they have learnt into situations that become increasingly difficult. Techniques such as imagery, modelling and role playing are used. The techniques are then applied in real life.

Question 6

What are the strengths of SIT?

Answer 6

1. It has long term effects, as it teaches individuals to cope and deal with current problems but also gives them confidence to deal with any future ones.
2. CBT has been found to be very effective in dealing with stress, probably because it is structured with clear goals and outcomes. One psychologist says SIT is proven to be effective in the treatment of both acute and chronic stressors.

Question 7

What are the limitations of SIT?

Answer 7

1. Some argue that it is an impractical treatment compared to drug therapy for some, as it takes time and costs money and also requires a lot of effort from the client. Lengthy therapies suit a limited range of determined people.
2. Some evidence suggests that a person’s personality effects the way they cope with a stressor. Any technique that aims to improve cognitions or behaviours in order to manage stress can prove difficult as they may be acting against habits that are well established in a person.