Week 9

Question 1

Explain the Social Readjustment Scale

Answer 1

Rahe and Holmes

Patients receive a stress score, the higher that score the more susceptible to physiological and mental affects.

Question 2

Explain General Adaptation Syndrome

Answer 2

Hans Selye = alarm  resistance  exhaustion. Alarm – fight or flight, controlled by sympathetic branch of ANS.

Question 3

Explain the Life Expectancy survey

Answer 3

Sarason, Johnson and Siegal – measures experiences and perceptions too.

Question 4

What are the barriers to health promotion and preventative care

Answer 4

Cultural values and belief that conflicts with Dr’s advice.
Mental health barriers.
Financial barriers.
Low intellect.

Question 5

Describe the major sources of stress

Answer 5

Psychological stressors – any life event causing adaptation (i.e. catastrophic event =war, GFC/life change, and strains – death, change jobs/chronic problems – health/daily hassles)

Question 6

What is the relationship between stress and health

Answer 6

People likely to develop infectious diseases and flare ups of latent viruses when stressed.
Cardiovascular – sympatho-adreno-medullary (SAM) system mobilises during times of threat.
Link between coronary heart disease and physical stress response appears strong.

Question 7

What are the major strategies for coping with stress

Answer 7

Problem focused – attempting to change the situation by altering or eliminating the source of stress
Emotion focused – attempting to change thoughts or emotional consequences
Behavioural coping strategies – things to avoid stressors
Physical coping strategies – physical things that are used to cope AFTER stressors
Progressive Muscle Relaxation Training – tensing and releasing muscles.
Cognitive- stress is a challenge rather than a threat.