Step 1: Take The Perceived Stress Scale Found At This Site

Step 1take The Perceived Stress Scale Found At This Sitehttpsdasn

Step 1 Take the Perceived Stress Scale found at this site: (opens in new window). Read the directions carefully and score yourself. Step 2 Thoroughly discuss the following: Compare your score with the ranges given. If you fall in the high or moderate range - find and discuss a healthy coping mechanism that you have not tried before and are willing to try. Why do you think this would work for you? If you fall in the low range- discuss why you think you are in this range. Is it genetic or learned behavior? What coping skills do you use to keep your perceived stress level low? Were you always this way? Resources: Textbook chapter 11 Acceptable Length: words (typed)

Paper For Above instruction

The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) is a widely recognized psychological tool designed to measure an individual's perception of stress. By evaluating how unpredictable, uncontrollable, and overloaded respondents find their lives, the PSS provides valuable insights into their stress levels. For this assignment, I completed the scale by following the provided instructions, which involved rating the frequency of certain feelings and thoughts related to stress over a specific period. After scoring in accordance with the guidelines, I analyzed my results relative to the established ranges.

My score placed me within the low perceived stress category. This outcome indicates that I generally perceive my life as manageable and less overwhelmed by daily challenges. Several factors might contribute to this low stress perception. Primarily, I believe this state is largely influenced by learned behaviors and effective coping mechanisms cultivated over time. For instance, I have developed routines such as regular physical activity, mindfulness meditation, and maintaining a supportive social network, all of which contribute significantly to my stress management. Additionally, my personality traits, such as resilience and optimism, play pivotal roles. While some genetic predispositions could influence stress responses, my consistent use of adaptive coping skills appears to be a more substantial factor in maintaining a low perceived stress level.

Throughout my life, I may not have always maintained such a low stress perception, especially during early childhood or adolescence when coping skills were less developed. However, over time, I have consciously adopted practices that promote emotional regulation and resilience. For example, I incorporate mindfulness techniques into my daily routine, which helps me stay present and reduces anxiety about future uncertainties. Engaging in physical exercise has proved to be a critical outlet for reducing tension and boosting mood. These strategies, reinforced by a positive outlook and supportive relationships, have been instrumental in keeping my stress levels low.

If I were to consider a different or additional coping mechanism, I would explore journaling as a means of emotional release and reflection. This practice can serve as an effective way to process complex feelings and identify patterns contributing to stress. Journaling has been shown to reduce anxiety, enhance self-awareness, and provide clarity during stressful times (Pennebaker & Beall, 1986). I believe that implementing this technique could help me further understand the underlying causes of stress and develop more targeted responses. Given my open-minded attitude towards self-improvement, I am willing to try this approach, believing it would complement my existing strategies and potentially improve my overall well-being.

References

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  • Berkman, L. F., & Glass, T. (2000). Social integration, social networks, social support, and health. In L. F. Berkman & I. Kawachi (Eds.), Social epidemiology (pp. 137-173). Oxford University Press.
  • Ryff, C. D. (2014). Psychological well-being revisited: Advances in the science and practice of eudaimonia. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 83(1), 10-28.
  • Gross, J. J., & Thompson, R. A. (2007). Emotion regulation: Conceptual foundations. In J. J. Gross (Ed.), The handbook of emotion regulation (pp. 3-24). Guilford Press.
  • McEwen, B. S. (2006). Protective and damaging effects of stress mediators: Central role of the brain. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 8(4), 367–381.

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