Thursday, 20 March 2008

Psychology: Stress Management


Four Methods of Stress Management:

1)PHYSIOLOGICAL APPROACH: the use of BZ's/biofeedback to target stress-response system

2)GENERAL PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH: relaxion/medication to reduce bodily arousal

3)SPECIFIC PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH:cognitive/behavioural training to help control specific stressors

4)ASPECTS OF LIFESTYLE: exercise/social support


Physiological Approaches to Stress Management


What drugs are used?

BENZODIAZEPHINE AND BETA-BLOCKERS


What do Benzodiazephines do?

-Reduce the activity of brain neurotransmitters STEROTONIN and CENTRAL BRAIN AROUSAL


What do Beta-blockers do?

Reduce activity in pathway of the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM

-->do not enter the brain


Draw backs of drugs?

1)DEPENDENCY: long term use: physiological/psychological dependency

--> BZ short term use

2)SIDE EFFECTS: drugs tend to have side effects, drowsiness/memory loss

3)TARGET SYMPTOMS: they dont treat causes, prevent actual issues being addressed


Benefits of drugs?

1)SPEED AND EFFECTIVNESS: drugs are quick working, they eliminate dangerous symptoms e.g. beta-blockers reduce anxiety

2)AVALIABILITY: they are prescribed immediately, and a variety of treatments avaliable


What is Bio-Feedback?


Are physiological systems which record the bodys stress responses e.g. heart rate

--> In order to reduce readings people are encouraged to do MUSCLE RELAXTION, MEDITATION.

-->Find a strategy to reduce stress and apply it to everyday life


Evaluating Bio-Feedback?

1)Effectiveness: succesful method for those who enjoy manipulating new technology

2)Role of relaxation: The relaxation and not bio-feedback are said to be the major aspect

3)Expense: Biofeedback is expensive (e.g. equipment and time)

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