by The Transactional Model
In 1984, Richard Lazarus and Susan Folkman proposed the Transactional Model (Cognitive Appraisal), a model that emphasizes how stress becomes the result of the imbalance between what the situation demands and what the person possesses in relation to those demands. According to them, stress is not directly resulting from the source of the stress otherwise known as the stressors; rather, it emerges because of the individual’s inability to satisfy demands. For these two researchers, therefore, stress management relates to the capacity of a person to utilize his resources in order to cope with the stress.
The Transactional Model tells us that a stress management program can only become effective if the individual’s ability to eliminate, reduce, or cope with stress is successful assessed, and that the factors related to such capacity are put into consideration.
Health Realization Model
Also called as the Innate Health Model of Stress, the Health Realization Model states that the presence of a probable stressor does not directly result to the stress experience. This idea was opposing that of the Transactional Model, because it states that the stress management program must be cantered on the perception of the potential stressor by the individual, not on his appraisal of stress coping abilities.
According to this model, the appraisal must be focused on filtering one’s mind of negativity an insecurity, so that he would not perceive a potential stressor as a source of stress, and would therefore lead to a more effective elimination or reduction of stress.
Stress Management Techniques
More and more people have realized their need to handle stress in a more effective way , which is why it is nearly impossible to identify all the stress management techniques applied by each of us. Nevertheless, here are the mostly recognized techniques on stress management:
- Exercise
- Starting a New a Hobby
- Meditation
- Autogenic training
- Artistic Expression
- Fractional relaxation
- Progressive relaxation
- Spas
- Alternative/ natural medicine
- Social activity
- Cognitive therapy
- Conflict resolution
- Deep breathing
- Reading novels
- Prayer
- Relaxation techniques
- Listening to Music
- Yoga
