Class 12 Psychology - ISC
Stress and Stress Management
The chapter 'Stress and Stress Management' in Class 12 ISC Psychology explores the nature of stress, its sources, and its impact on human mind and body. Students learn about the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model proposed by Hans Selye, coping mechanisms, and various stress management techniques. This chapter is vital for board exams as it bridges theoretical psychological concepts with practical life applications, frequently featuring case-based application questions, short-answer definitions, and long essay questions on coping strategies and stress reduction techniques.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Stress
A pattern of responses an organism makes to stimulus events that disturb its equilibrium and tax or exceed its ability to cope.
General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)
A three-stage model of the body's physiological reaction to stress, consisting of Alarm reaction, Resistance, and Exhaustion stages.
Coping
Dynamic efforts (behavioral and cognitive) to master, tolerate, or reduce demands that create stress, categorized mainly into problem-focused and emotion-focused coping.
Burnout
A state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion resulting from long-term involvement in emotionally demanding situations.
Resilience
The capacity to recover quickly from tough situations or bounce back from severe stress and adversity.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the ISC Class 12 Psychology board examination, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions usually include 2-mark short answers defining key terms like 'eustress' or 'burnout', 4-mark distinguishing questions (e.g., problem-focused vs. emotion-focused coping), and occasionally 6-mark essay questions detailing the GAS model or specific stress management techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between eustress and distress?
Eustress is good or positive stress that motivates individuals and improves performance, whereas distress is bad or negative stress that causes anxiety, discomfort, and impaired performance.
How do I answer questions on the GAS model in the ISC exam?
Clearly define each of the three stages—Alarm Reaction, Resistance, and Exhaustion—providing physiological changes that occur in each stage, ideally using a diagrammatic representation if time permits.
What are the most effective stress management techniques to write in exams?
Mention a mix of physiological techniques (like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga) and psychological techniques (like cognitive restructuring, time management, and positive self-talk).
Learn Stress and Stress Management with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards