2.1.5—Diathesis-stress
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2027
- Objective
- 2.1.5
- Level
- HL
Diathesis–stress explains risk as an interaction
The diathesis–stress model proposes that a predisposition (diathesis) combines with environmental stress to increase the probability of a disorder or outcome.
A vulnerability may be biological, psychological or social; stress can be acute or chronic. The model predicts variation: the same stressor need not produce the same outcome, and protective support can change the pathway.
Two people may experience the same workload, but only one develops persistent symptoms because prior vulnerability, sleep and social support differ. The observation supports an interaction hypothesis, not a single cause.
Diathesis is not destiny and stress is not always visible. Measure both components and avoid blaming the person or environment alone.