Concept of Stress - Psychology

Concept of Stress

• Stress is defined as the body's non-specific response to any demand placed upon it.
• Hans Selye is considered the "father of stress research".
• General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is a model with three stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Objectives

• Understand the nature and types of stress.
• Identify sources and effects of stress.
• Determine effective techniques for managing and coping with stress healthily and productively.

What is Stress? (Defining Stress)

• Stress can be an internal physiological response (involuntary physical reaction to a stressor)
• A harmful external pressure on the body.
• A transaction between stimulus and response that depends on the cognitive evaluation of the context (stressor) where it only arises in the absence of coping mechanisms.

Lazarus and Folkman

• Proposed a cognitive appraisal theory of stress.
• Stated that stress is a result of interaction between the individual and their environment.
• Stress arises when a perceived situation exceeds coping resources.

Types of Stress

• Distress: Negative stress arising from unpleasant events or conditions (e.g., losing a job or a friend); leads to anxiety, poor work delivery or breakdown in mental and physical systems.
• Eustress: Good stress arising from pleasant events or conditions (e.g., having a child or joining a club); enhances performance and stimulates the individual.

Sources of Stress

• Academic Stressors: Stress arising from educational demands like exams, deadlines, and performance expectations; impacts grades, workload and competition.
• Internal Stressors: Stress originating within a person. Related to self-expectations, perfectionism, and negative self-talk; leads to inadequacy and self-doubt.
• Interpersonal Stressors: Stress stemming from conflicts and challenges in relationships (family, friends, colleagues).
• Environmental Stressors: Stress arising from external factors like noise, pollution, and crowding in an individual's environment.
• Job Stressors: Stress related to workload, job security, and relationships in workplaces—leading to burnout and decreased job satisfaction.
• Technological Stressors: Stress caused by the rapid advancement of technology, constant connectivity, information overload, pressure to be available, and fear of missing out (FOMO).

Stages of Stress

• Alarm Stage: Initial response to a stressor; fight or flight response, increased heart rate and alertness; body prepares for confrontation or escape.
• Resistance Stage: Body adapts to the ongoing stressor; heightened focus and performance—but prolonged exposure leads to fatigue and decreased effectiveness.
• Exhaustion Stage: Body's resources are depleted due to prolonged stress; results in physical and emotional burnout, various health issues (anxiety, depression, chronic illness).

Approaches to Stress Management

• Physical aspects
• Social aspects
• Environmental aspects
• Psychological aspects
• Cognitive aspects

Impact of Stress on Health

• Physical: Sleep problems, digestive issues, headaches, increased heart disease risk.
• Mental: Depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating.
• Emotional: Irritability, sensitivity, feeling overwhelmed

Relaxation and Breathing Techniques

• Meditation: Daily practice to calm the mind.
• Deep Breathing: Exercises to reduce physical and mental tension.

Healthy Lifestyle

• Regular Exercise: Reduces stress and improves mood.
• Balanced Diet: Supports physical and mental health.
• Adequate Sleep: Crucial for body and mind recovery.

Social Support and Communication

• Talk with Close Ones: Discuss feelings with friends or family.
• Join Communities: Find support groups or social activities.
• Professional Consultation: Seek help from psychologist or counselor when needed

Conclusion

• Stress management is an ongoing process.
• It requires attention and effort but enhances quality of life.

This quiz explores the concept of stress, its definitions, types, and the physiological responses involved. Focus on Hans Selye's research and the General Adaptation Syndrome model. Additionally, gain insights on cognitive appraisal theory and healthy coping techniques.