Chapter 14: Stress, Lifestyle, and Health

When was the term 'stress' first used in scientific literature?

The term 'stress' was first used in scientific literature in the 1930s.

What common feelings do people associate with stress?

Frustration, anger, conflict, or feeling overwhelmed.

What is a stimulus-based definition of stress?

It focuses on events or situations that cause stress.

What is a response-based definition of stress?

It emphasizes physiological reactions to stressors.

Who defined stress as the body’s response to any demand?

Hans Selye.

What are the two types of appraisal in the process of stress?

Primary appraisal and Secondary appraisal.

What does primary appraisal involve?

Judging the threat level of a stressor.

What does secondary appraisal assess?

Assessing available coping options.

How do individual perceptions influence stress levels?

Different perceptions about the same situation can lead to varying levels of stress.

What is eustress?

Good stress that leads to positive feelings and performance.

What is distress?

Bad stress that can lead to burnout and health issues.

What is the prevalence of stress among U.S. adults over the last five years?

Nearly half reported increased stress.

What field studies how stress affects health?

Health Psychology.

Who identified the fight-or-flight response?

Walter Cannon.

What are the three stages of the general adaptation syndrome?

Alarm Reaction, Stage of Resistance, Stage of Exhaustion.

What are chronic stressors?

Ongoing situations that last a long time.

What are acute stressors?

Short-term events that can cause overwhelming feelings.

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

A severe reaction after experiencing trauma, leading to anxiety and distress.

What does the Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS) measure?

The stress level of life events with points assigned to each.

What are daily hassles?

Small irritations that can accumulate and lead to stress.

How can occupational stressors affect health?

Certain jobs can be inherently more stressful, leading to burnout.

What is job burnout?

A decline in physical and emotional well-being due to chronic job-related stress.

How do negative aspects of relationships contribute to stress?

Conflicts or lack of support can add significant stress to one's life.

What are psychophysiological disorders?

Physical disorders caused or worsened by stress and emotional factors.

How can chronic stress affect blood pressure?

It can lead to hypertension and increase the risk of heart issues.

What role does cortisol play in stress?

Cortisol can weaken the immune system and lead to infections.

What impact does social status have on health?

Lower social status often correlates with higher stress and health issues.

How does stress affect the immune system?

Stress can weaken the immune response, leading to autoimmune diseases.

What is the relationship between chronic stress and aging?

Chronic stress can shorten telomeres, linked to aging.

What two personality types are associated with heart disease risk?

Type A and Type B personality types.

What triggers asthma attacks?

Stress and strong emotions.

What types of headaches can be caused by stress?

Tension headaches and migraines.

What are the two main types of coping identified by Lazarus and Folkman?

Problem-Focused Coping and Emotion-Focused Coping.

What is Problem-Focused Coping?

Actively trying to solve or manage the stressor.

What is Emotion-Focused Coping?

Changing or reducing negative feelings caused by stress.

What does perceived control relate to in terms of stress levels?

A belief in one’s ability to influence outcomes relates to lower stress levels.

What can learned helplessness lead to?

A feeling of helplessness that can contribute to depression.

How does social support affect stress management?

Strong relationships provide emotional comfort and help manage stress.

What is a common and effective way to reduce stress?

Exercise.

What is the Relaxation Response Technique?

Involves quiet sitting, focusing on a mantra, and letting the mind relax.

What is positive psychology?

A field studying what helps individuals live fulfilling and happy lives.

How do people often mispredict their happiness after life events?

They may overestimate the happiness that events like winning the lottery will bring.

What approach targets strengths and fulfillment to improve well-being?

Positive psychology.

What are the three parts of happiness according to psychologists?

Pleasant Life, Good Life, and Meaningful Life.

What economic factor correlates with happiness until a point?

Income levels, particularly around $75,000.

Which country is often ranked as one of the happiest?

Denmark.

What effect does marriage usually have on happiness?

Married individuals typically report greater happiness.

What common misconception exists about parenthood and happiness?

Parenthood does not guarantee happiness.

What can help individuals increase their happiness according to recent studies?

Well-being programs and happiness improvement techniques.

How can gratitude journaling affect happiness?

It can have lasting effects on happiness.