I/O Psych Final

Stress

psychological and physical reaction to events.

Stressor

events that cause stress (ex: weddings, job interviews, dentist appt, deadlines)

Stress Reactivity

elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, muscle tension and perspiration.

Strains

prolonged reactivity

Eustress

(eu = proper) stress to positive energy- anxiety before a test gives energy to study.

Optical level of arousal (inverted u theory)

moderate level = better performance, different for each person.

Distress

too much stress = bad performance and health.

Type A Personality

achievement striving, impatient, time urgency, anger, hostility, multitasking, fast paced, competitive, more likely to have high blood pressure and stress hormones, slower to recover.

Type B Personality

 less stressed, relaxed, agreeable, use positive ways to deal with stress.

Type D Personality (distressed personality)

less known, inclined to experience negative emotions, suppress emotions, avoid contact, burn out.

Neuroticism

anxious, depressed, pessimistic, lack hope, more likely to see events stressful and have negative reactions.

Has more stressors:

women, underrepresented groups, hypertension in black people.

Most Common Causes of Stress

money, work, the economy, family responsibilities, relationships, personal health, housing cost, job stability, family health, personal safety.

Personal Stressors

nonwork issues- fear, resistance (ex: traditions), resentment (scared and confused)