Psychology Stress Response and Support

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a sign of the exhaustion stage of stress?

Increased anxiety

Poor concentration (correct)

Depression

Fatigue or burnout

Stress is primarily caused by what type of factors?

Genetic predispositions

Internal psychological factors

Factors within personal control

External factors beyond individual control (correct)

What can be a behavioral consequence of an individual's inability to cope with stress?

Reassessing life goals

Enhanced communication skills

Increased motivation

Irritability and harmful language (correct)

How does individual perception affect stress during repeated situations?

Experience can lessen the perceived stress. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions is commonly associated with chronic stress in the exhaustion stage?

Burnout Signup and view all the answers

According to the stress-vulnerability model, what influences an individual's reaction to stressors?

Experience and maturity Signup and view all the answers

Which physical changes are commonly associated with the stress response?

Increased heart rate Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Betari Box theory?

Relationship between attitude and behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial response of the body to stress known as?

Alarm Reaction Stage Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone is primarily released in the Alarm Reaction Stage as part of the stress response?

Adrenaline Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during the Resistance Stage of General Adaptation Syndrome?

The body attempts to repair itself while remaining on alert. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence if the Resistance Stage is prolonged?

Transition into the Exhaustion Stage. Signup and view all the answers

How does social support contribute to managing stress?

It encourages problem-solving and coping strategies. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to cortisol levels during the Resistance Stage?

They are maintained at a lower level compared to the Alarm Stage. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of coping strategies in relation to stress?

To manage and overcome stress effectively. Signup and view all the answers

In which stage of General Adaptation Syndrome does the body start to feel exhausted?

Exhaustion Stage Signup and view all the answers

What can increase an individual's vulnerability to stress?

Alcohol and drug use Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a biological factor that contributes to vulnerability to psychiatric disorders?

Family history Signup and view all the answers

How can prolonged exposure to stress affect behavior?

It can cause abnormal behaviors like phobias. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT part of the stress-vulnerability model?

Genetic modification Signup and view all the answers

What type of activities can help reduce stress and provide a sense of purpose?

Meaningful activities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a positive event that may still cause stress?

Getting a promotion Signup and view all the answers

Which coping strategy is specifically mentioned as a way to handle stress?

Relaxation skills Signup and view all the answers

What type of skills can help in effectively managing stress?

Conflict resolution skills Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

### Social Support

Social support comes from having close and meaningful relationships with others.
Relationships provide help with solving problems, developing coping strategies, and feeling important and cared for.
Individuals with good social support are less vulnerable to the effects of stress.

General Adaptation Syndrome (Reaction to Stress)

Explains the different stages of stress.
Identifies three stages: Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion.
These stages describe the physiological changes the body goes through when under stress.

Alarm Reaction Stage

This is the initial reaction to stress.
Includes a "fight or flight" response, where individuals either avoid the situation or confront it.
Heart rate increases, the adrenal gland releases cortisol, and adrenaline is released boosting energy levels.

Resistance Stage

The body begins to repair itself after initial stress.
Cortisol levels decrease, and heart rate and blood pressure return to normal.
The body remains on high alert, and continues to repair itself until normal levels are restored.
If stress continues, the body adapts and learns to live with a higher stress level.
Signs of the resistance stage include irritability, frustration, and poor concentration.

Exhaustion Stage

The body is drained of physical, emotional, and mental resources after prolonged stress.
This can weaken the immune system and increase vulnerability to stress related illnesses.
Signs include fatigue, burnout, depression, anxiety, and decreased tolerance to stress.

Stressful Events

Stressors are external factors that provoke a negative reaction.
Examples include: job loss, medical problems, financial troubles, family breakdown, and trauma.

Individual Perception of Demand

An individual's reaction to stress is shaped by their experience and maturity.
The perceived level of stress can vary greatly depending on an individual's past experiences.

Stress Response

Stress results in physical and psychological changes.
Physical changes include feeling nervous, increased heart rate, and stomach churning.
Psychological changes include negative thinking and a lack of concentration.

Behavioural Consequences

Behaviour is influenced by an individual's coping ability.
Irrational and negative coping can lead to irritability, verbal aggression, physical harm, and overthinking.
Reflection on behaviour after stressful events can help individuals to better manage future similar situations.

The Attitude / Behaviour Cycle (Betari Box)

Links attitude and behaviour in a circular diagram.

Biological Vulnerability

Individuals may be more likely to suffer from psychiatric disorders due to family history or early life experiences.
These vulnerabilities can be influenced by genetics, but mitigated through medication and avoiding alcohol or drugs.

Stress-Vulnerability Model

The model emphasizes the following factors: Alcohol and drug use, coping skills, social support, and meaningful activities.
Addressing these factors can improve stress symptoms.

Alcohol and Drug Use

Alcohol and drug use can increase vulnerability to stress, trigger psychiatric disorders, and worsen symptoms.

Coping Skills

Developing coping strategies helps manage stress and reduce its negative effects on vulnerability.
Examples include relaxation techniques, social skills, and time management skills.
Prolonged stress exposure can lead to abnormal behavior like phobias, panic-anxiety disorder, and PTSD.

Involvement in Meaningful Activities

Engaging in meaningful activities provides a sense of purpose and reduces stress.
Examples include work, school, parenting, homemaking, and hobbies.

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Description

This quiz examines the concepts of social support and the General Adaptation Syndrome in psychology. It covers the stages of stress reactions and the impact of meaningful relationships on coping with stress. Test your understanding of how individuals react and adapt to stressful situations.