Understanding Psychology (10th Ed)

499
Looking
Back
 Psychology on the Web
1. Find three or more websites that deal with stress reduction. Gather at least fi ve 
techniques for reducing stress and summarize them. Write a critique and evaluation 
of those techniques using the information you have learned about stress. Which ones 
seem to have a sound basis in psychological theory and/or research?
2. Are you closer to a Type A or a Type B personality? Find two websites off ering tests 
that claim to provide the answer. Summarize the quality of the tests from a scientifi c 
point of view and compare the results you received from each one.
In this set of modules, we have explored the intersection 
of psychology and biology. We have seen how the 
emotional and psychological experience of stress can lead to physical symptoms of 
illness, how personality factors may be related to major health problems, and how 
psychological factors can interfere with eff ective communication between physician and 
patient. We have also looked at the other side of the coin noting that some relatively 
simple strategies can help us control stress, aff ect illness, and improve our interactions 
with physicians. 
Turn back to the prologue of this set of modules about Louisa Denby and her hectic 
schedule. Use your understanding of health psychology and stress to consider these 
questions.
1. Based on the description of Denby’s day, which are personal stressors and which are 
background stressors? What might happen to “elevate” the stress level of a back-
ground stressor to a more serious level?
2. Are there likely to be any uplifts in her day?
3. How does the GAS apply to Denby’s situation? How might events in her life move her 
along the three stages of the model?
4. What steps would you advise Denby to take to keep her level of stress under control? 
How might others in her life be involved in such an eff ort?
Epilogue
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