Stress is a familiar word, but it can describe many different experiences. This lesson explains why stress is difficult to define and how a person's interpretation of events shapes their response.
The word stress entered scientific writing in the 1930s and became common in everyday language in the 1970s. People often use it to describe frustration, anger, conflict, feeling overwhelmed, or fatigue. Because the word refers to varied experiences, researchers have found it difficult to agree on one precise definition.
All flashcards
What is a stimulus-based definition of stress?
It defines stress as a demanding or threatening event or situation, focusing on the stimulus that may produce reactions.
What is a response-based definition of stress?
It defines stress in terms of a person's response to environmental demands, often emphasizing physiological reactions.
What is a stressor?
A stressor is an event or situation that a person appraises as potentially overwhelming or threatening to well-being.
What is primary appraisal?
It is the judgment of whether a stressor involves potential harm or threat, or whether it may offer a challenge or opportunity.
What is secondary appraisal?
It is the judgment of which coping options are available and how effective those options are likely to be.
Quiz questions
What does a stimulus-based definition identify as stress?Answer: A demanding or threatening event or situation.
Why is a response-based definition incomplete on its own?Answer: Physiological arousal can occur in situations that are not generally considered stressful.
What is a primary appraisal?Answer: A judgment about the potential harm, threat, or challenge posed by a stressor.
In general adaptation syndrome, what characterizes the resistance stage?Answer: The body adapts to a continuing stressor while remaining prepared to respond.
A person judges a situation as threatening but believes effective help is available. Which appraisal most directly affects their view of how manageable the situation is?Answer: Secondary appraisal.
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.