According to Sue, Sue and Sue (1994), millions of Americans suffer physical, behavioral and psychological consequences of stress. This paper delineates and discusses the effects of stress. Further, the paper provides a report on stress in the workplace and examines research as to why stress can have a stronger impact on some individuals than on others.
Graves and Lancaster (1994) have noted that there are a number of physical effects associated with stress. These effects include: elevated blood pressure (which, over time, can lead to hypertension and heart arrhythmias); increased muscle tension; elevated pulse and respiration; sweaty hands; headaches; upset stomach; high-pitched voice; dry throat and mouth; sleep disturbance; and appetite disturbance. Further, stress can operate to depress the immune system causing people to be more susceptible to illness and disease (Kiecolt-Glaser & associates, 1987).
Regarding the psychological effects of stress, De La Fuente (1990) states that people react to stress in three stages. De La Fuente's three stage model was developed from observation of the psychological consequences occurring among a large sample of survivors of the 1985 earthquake in Mexico City.
The first stage psychological reaction to stress is one of disorientation, confusing and bewilderment. The second stage psychological reaction, (a reaction which is not necessarily experienced by all as some people adjust relatively well following the first stage reaction) is associated with a wide variety of negative reactions. These include: panic, weeping, hysteria, dissociation, guilt and anger.
Most people experiencing the second stage psychological consequences of stress will slowly begin to readjust and get their lives back in order. However, some will go on to experience the third stage reaction which is an intensification of the feelings associated with the second stage reaction and which, in some, will l...