Psychology discussing stress.

Authors Avatar
Claire McNeill Psychology

Task 1

Give a definition of the following in your own words:

A) Define stress as an external stimulus

B) Define stress as an internal response

C) Define stress as a transaction (e.g., interpretation of an event)

Task 1

(A)

The word 'Stress' was first used in 'Physics'.

In Physics an external stimulus is the external force, which places strain on an object.

E.g. a large weight is hung on a metal rod. Because the weight is so strong the metal rod is put under stress and eventually snaps. Therefore the weight acted as a ' stressor'.

In psychology stress as an external stimulus places strain on the individual. There are many stressful external stimuli in our lives today, a few example include:

- Taking an exam

- Illness

- Divorce/marriage

- A new partner

These examples can be seen as external forces like the metal rod too much stress on an individual could make them break or snap.

Task 1

(B)

An internal response is something that is going on inside the person. Rather than an outside force acting on the person it is an inside force. Stress response is the psychological and physiological changes produced by a stressor.

Aspects of the stress response psychologically may or can include anxiety, anger or a state of frustration.

Physiological aspects of the stress response can include an increase in the person's heart rate and the release of a large amount of sugar in the bloodstream.

Physiological changes will increase alertness and energy in the person's life.
Join now!


If the stressor is prolonged then the stress response can be long lasting and harmful.

It may become fatal.

Task 1

(C)

Stress is a transaction between the individual and their environment. An event only becomes a stressor when a person perceives or interprets it as such. A good is 'divorce'.

One person may see as being brilliant, a relief. The other may see this calamity. The person who sees the divorce as a calamity will probably be experience as a stressor.

Stress as a transaction sees stressors ...

This is a preview of the whole essay