IB Psychology SL 3.1.7 Stress and Health Questions

Refer to the paper 2 assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term "discuss" requires candidates to offer a considered review of social and/or psychological aspects of stress. There is no need for candidates to distinguish between social and psychological aspects of stress.

Relevant research may include, but is not limited to:
- Kemeny et al.'s (2005) social self-preservation theory
- Evans and Kim's (2007) or Fernald and Gunnar's (2008) studies on the relationship between poverty and stress
- Taylor et al.'s (2000) theory (tend and befriend) and related studies on gender-specific responses to stress
- O'Driscoll and Cooper's (1994) study on coping with work-related stress.
- Kamen and Seligman's (1987) study on attributional style and health levels
- Speisman et al.'s (1964) study on the role of appraisal in stress experience
- Lazarus and Folkman's (1984) transactional model of stress

Aspects of stress may include, but are not limited to:
- stress in the workplace
- coping strategies
- social support
- mindfulness-based stress reduction
- causes, consequences and/or strategies for dealing with stress.

Discussion may include, but is not limited to:
- cultural and gender considerations
- application of research
- methodological and ethical considerations
- difficulties in distinguishing between social and psychological aspects of stress
- empirical and/or contrary findings or explanations.

Candidates may address a small number of social/psychological aspects of stress in order to demonstrate depth of knowledge, or may address a larger number of social/psychological aspects of stress in order to demonstrate breadth of knowledge. Both approaches are equally acceptable.