Types of Stressors

A stressor is any event or situation that produces stress in a person. Stressors can be negative or positive depending on their effect on our day-to-day functioning.

• Stressors are usually negative in character.
• Normally, we think that stress arises only from negative situations in life.
• Negative stressors create problems in adjustment and can lead to adjustment disorders.
• They disturb the normal functioning of personality and make it difficult to cope.

• There are certain positive events which are called positive stressors.
• These do not produce negative effects on adjustment or adjustment disorders.
• Positive stressors produce positive effects on the day-to-day functioning of personality.
• Here, some amount of stress is helpful and motivates a person to struggle for existence and survival.
• A certain degree of force or stress is necessary for learning or performance to be effective.
• For time-bound work, stress has a very positive role in helping a person complete tasks.

A positive stressor inspires and motivates a person.

The situations are enjoyable, but are still accompanied by changes in the person, such as:

• Biochemical changes
• Physiological changes
• Cognitive changes
• Behaviour changes

Thus, positive stress is also stress, but it usually leads to constructive behaviour.

Negative Stressors (Distress):

• Failing an important exam or getting very low marks.
• Losing a job or facing sudden money problems

Positive Stressors (Eustress):

• Preparing for an essential but wanted exam (like boards or an entrance test).
• Starting a new job or internship that you are excited about.

• Stressors are events or situations that cause stress.
• Most stressors are negative and can disturb adjustment.
• Positive stressors are pleasant events that cause stress but help in adjustment and performance.
• Some amount of stress is necessary for learning, performance, and meeting deadlines.
• Positive stressors can create strong emotions and bodily changes, but generally motivate and inspire the person.