Download Stress-module 12

Module 12 Notes
 The
process by which we perceive and respond to
certain events, called stressors, that we appraise as
threatening or challenging
-The response is called a stress reaction
 A subfield
of psychology that focuses on how
stress affects our well being and health
-This field focuses on studying ways to manage and
rude all types of stress
 Selye’s
concept of the body’s adaptive response to
stress in three stages
1. Alarm Reaction – nervous system activated in
response to stressor
2. Resistance – body responds with physiological
reactions to cope with the stressor
3. Exhaustion – body’s resistance to stress is
depleted (physical deterioration)
Stress
can be caused by:
 Typical demands of the day
 Living situations
 Economic difficulties
 What
are some other factors that
can cause stress? (stressors)
Physical,
emotional, and mental
exhaustion brought on by persistent
job-related stress
Burnout can result in:
 Depression
 Decreased performance
 Cynicism
Stress
can be the result of personal
life changes
 Death of a loved one
 Leaving home for college
Can
result in health problems
 Large
scale stress events (i.e. earthquakes, floods,
war, etc.)
 Prolonged exposure can lead to physical and
psychological problems
 Hormones
released in response to stress (cortisol)
 The body must work to rid the body of the stress
hormones.
 Pessimism and perceived lack of control both
produce more stress hormones- which can lead to
negative health effects and weakening of immune
system
The sense of control or
influence one has over
stressful events in one’s
life
 Most studies suggest the
lower the perceived
control the larger the
potential for healthrelated problems (lower
immunity to disease)

Lack of Perceived Control
A generally positive
outlook on the future
 Optimists have stronger
immune systems and
recover faster from
health problems.
 Opposite of pessimism

Optimism
Evidence
for a connection is not
conclusive- but seems to show a
positive coorelation.
Two conclusions:
 Stress does not create cancer cells.
 Stress affects the body’s
malignancy- fighting ability.
Orderly
 Organized
 Tend to be more
competitive/driven
 Tend to see higher
instance of heart related
problems

Type A
Easy-going
 Relaxed
 May be more creative

Type B