This lesson explains how a response that helps us handle immediate danger can affect health when it is repeatedly activated. It introduces psychophysiological disorders and considers how social status and unequal access to care shape health.
The stress response coordinates physiological changes that prepare the body to respond to a threat. In a short-term emergency, these changes can be useful. Problems may arise when the response is activated again and again, or remains active for a long time in response to ongoing concerns such as work, relationships, or finances.
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What is cumulative wear and tear from stress?
It is the gradual strain on bodily systems that may result when the stress response is activated repeatedly or remains active for a prolonged period.
Define psychophysiological disorder.
A physical disorder whose symptoms are caused or worsened by stress and other psychological factors. The symptoms are real.
Give two examples of psychophysiological disorders from different body systems.
Examples include hypertension (cardiovascular), irritable bowel syndrome (gastrointestinal), asthma (respiratory), tension headaches (musculoskeletal), and eczema (skin).
How can social status affect health?
Social status may shape exposure to stress, control and predictability, income, and access to health care and community resources.
What does neuroticism describe?
A tendency toward anxiety, moodiness, and sadness; it has been considered a possible correlate of illness risk.
Quiz questions
Why can repeated or prolonged activation of the stress response affect health?Answer: It can create cumulative physiological strain over time.
Which description best defines a psychophysiological disorder?Answer: A physical disorder whose symptoms may be caused or worsened by psychological factors.
How may lower social status contribute to stress and poorer health?Answer: It may involve less control and reduced access to health care and other resources.
What is a central function of the immune system?Answer: Identifying and helping eliminate harmful microorganisms and other foreign substances.
What occurs in an autoimmune disease?Answer: The immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy cells or tissues.
Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.