Psychology

Here’s a clearer breakdown of the notes on well-being, stress, and related concepts:

1. Well-being:

• Definition: A positive state characterized by striving for optimal health and life satisfaction.

2. Stress:

• Definition: The process of perceiving and responding to events (stressors) that are seen as challenging or exceeding one’s ability to cope.

A. Types of Appraisal

1. Primary Appraisal: Evaluating whether an event is a threat and determining its severity (low, moderate, or high).

2. Secondary Appraisal: Assessing what coping strategies or resources are available to handle the stressor.

B. Is Stress Useful?

• Yerkes-Dodson Optimal Arousal Curve:

• Performance is best with moderate stress.

• Too little stress → boredom or low motivation.

• Too much stress → anxiety or reduced performance.

C. Types of Stressors:

1. Negative Events:

• Catastrophes: Natural disasters, wars, major accidents.

• Life Changes: Divorce, job loss, relocation.

• Daily Hassles: Traffic, arguments, deadlines.

2. Positive Events (Eustress):

• Positive stress that motivates growth and success (e.g., job promotion, marriage).

D. Stress Reaction:

• Definition: Physical, emotional, and behavioral responses triggered by stress.

1. Walter Cannon’s Fight or Flight Response:

• Stress Hormones Released:

• Adrenaline (Epinephrine): Increases heart rate and boosts energy.

• Cortisol: Maintains energy supply but suppresses the immune system if activated long-term.

• Activation of the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS):

• Prepares the body for action (fight or flight).

• Symptoms: Increased heart rate, trembling, sweating, rapid breathing.

2. Hans Selye’s General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS):

A three-stage model of the body’s response to chronic stress:

a. Alarm Stage:

• Initial biological preparation to respond to a stressor.

• Body Response: Activation of the SNS, increased heart rate, trembling, shortness of breath.

b. Resistance Stage:

• Continuous hormone release (adrenaline, cortisol) to sustain the fight or flight response.

• Psychological and Behavioral Reactions: Coping strategies are deployed, but long-term stress can weaken the body.

Let me know if you need further elaboration on any section!