Individual Differences – A Level Psychology Eduqas Revision

Individual Differences in Stress Response

Individual differences refer to the diverse ways in which humans cope with stress, due to differing personalities, biological makeup, and life experiences.
Classic theories such as Hans Selye’s General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model suggest a generalised, predictable stress response, but this can be influenced by individual differences.

Type A individuals are said to be competitive, highly organised, ambitious, impatient, highly aware of time management and/or aggressive. Such individuals may be more susceptible to stress-related illnesses such as heart disease.
On the contrary, Type B individuals are more relaxed, free-flowing, creative, and less stressed.
Hardy individuals (those with high levels of commitment, control, and challenge) are considered more resilient to stress, even when they are exposed to high levels of stress.

Problem-focused coping involves trying to remove or circumnavigate the cause of stress, whereas emotion-focused coping comprises efforts to change the negative emotions associated with stress.
Individual differences in preference for a coping style can influence the experience and impact of stress.

Research suggests gender differences in stress response, potentially because of societal roles and expectations, and biological differences.
For example, women may be more likely to engage in “tend and befriend” behaviours in response to stress, likely under the influence of the hormone oxytocin.

Different cultures may have different norms and understandings about stress, affecting the way stress is experienced and expressed.
More collectivist cultures, for example, may place a higher emphasis on social harmony, and thus interpersonal stressors might be more significant.
On the other hand, more individualist cultures might prioritise personal achievement, leading to a higher susceptibility to performance-related stressors.

Genetic factors may influence an individual’s susceptibility to stress and stress-related disorders.
Genes that regulate the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine play a significant role in how individuals react to stress.

Perceived control over a stressful situation can greatly influence how much stress is experienced. People who feel they have more control over a situation may experience less stress than those who feel they have no control.
Some individuals are naturally more optimistic and may perceive potentially stressful situations more positively, reducing their stress levels.