Task-Oriented Reactions to Stress

Task-Oriented Reactions to Stress – consciously thing about stressful situation & act to solve

1. attack behavior – constructive: problem-solving or destructive:aggressive anger & hostility. Person overcomes obstacles to satisfy a need

2. withdrawal behavior – physically withdraw from threat, emotional reaction is guilt or isolation

3. compromise behavior – usually constructive, substitute goals or negotiate

Defense Mechanisms

1. compensation – excel in something else to make up for lack

2. denial – alcoholics – pt refuses to admit problem

3. displacement – kick dog instead of dealing with problem

4. introjection – adolescent who takes on values of favorite teacher

5. projection - "I'm not attracted to him, my best friend is."

6. rationalization – explain away - " I knew that teacher was out to get me."

Defense Mechanisms (continued)

1. reaction formation - pt who brings gifts to nurse that he is angry with

2. regression – child reverts to thumb sucking when admitted to hospital

3. repression - "Our family never had any problems." (said by an abused adolescent)

4. sublimation – deal with aggression by playing football

5. undoing – abusive husband who brings expensive gifts to wife the day after an argument

Adaptation to Acute and Chronic Illness

1. general tasks – ie. maintaining self-esteem & personal relationships (prepare for uncertain future)

2. illness-related tasks – ie. handling pain & disability (losing independence & control)

Effects of Stress on Basic Human Needs

1. physiologic – change in appetite, sleep, migraine, elimination

2. safety / security – threatened, nervous, inattentive

3. love / belonging – withdrawn, isolated, overly dependent on others

4. self-esteem – workaholic, compensate to deal with stress

5. self-actualization – accept or reject reality – center on own problems

Effects of Long-Term Stress

1. affects physical status

2. increases risk for disease or injury

3. compromises recovery & return to normal function

4. is associated with specific diseases (cardiovascular, gastrointestinal disorders, cancer)

Family Stressors

1. changes in family structure & role

2. anger & feelings of helplessness & guilt

3. loss of control over normal routines

4. concern for future financial stability

5. caregiver burden – stress response