Question

Explain the effect of stress on the psychological functioning of an individual.

Answer 1

There are four major effects of stress associated with the stressed state, viz. emotional, physiological, cognitive, and behavioural.

1. Emotional Effects: Those who suffer from stress are far more likely to experience mood swings and show erratic behaviour that may alienate them from family and friends.
2. Physiological Effects: When the human body is placed under physical or psychological stress, it increases the production of certain hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones produce marked changes in heart rate, blood pressure levels, metabolism and physical activity.
3. Cognitive Effects: If pressures due to stress continue, one may suffer from mental overload. The cognitive effects of stress are poor concentration and reduced short-term memory capacity.
4. Behavioural Effects: Stress affects our behaviour in the form of eating less nutritious food, increasing intake of stimulants such as caffeine, and excessive consumption of cigarettes, alcohol, and other drugs such as tranquilizers, etc.