Define the term stress

On this page, we help students to answer the following question: “Define the term stress.” This definition is based on the prescribed Life Orientation Grade 12 textbooks used in South African schools, such as Focus Life Orientation and Oxford Successful Life Orientation.

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Quick Answer

Textbook Definition of Stress:

• The Core: The body’s physical, mental, and emotional response to any demand, pressure, or threat (known as a “stressor”).
• The Cause: A mismatch between the perceived demands of a situation and an individual’s perceived ability to cope with those demands.
• The Result: It triggers a physiological “fight or flight” response, preparing the body for action.

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Stress According to the LO Curriculum

In the Life Orientation curriculum, stress is not viewed simply as “feeling worried.” Textbooks provide a more structured definition that categorises how we react to the environment around us.

1. The Interactionist Definition

Most textbooks define stress as a transaction between the person and their environment. It occurs when a person perceives that the external demands (like NSC exam preparation) are taxing or exceeding their internal resources.

2. The Biological Response (Fight or Flight)

Textbooks explain stress through the biological lens of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). When you encounter a stressor, your nervous system responds by releasing hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.

• Alarm Stage: The heart rate increases and senses sharpen to deal with the immediate threat.
• Resistance Stage: The body tries to adapt to the stressor and return to normal.
• Exhaustion Stage: If the stress continues for too long, the body’s resources are depleted, leading to excessive stress and illness.

3. Two Types of Stress (Eustress vs. Distress)

A key textbook distinction is that not all stress is bad:

• Eustress (Positive Stress): This is short-term stress that provides the energy and motivation needed to achieve goals. For example, the “nervous energy” that helps you stay focused during exams.
• Distress (Negative Stress): This is unpleasant stress that can lead to intrapersonal conflict and health problems if not managed with effective coping mechanisms.

4. Stressors in the South African Context

Textbooks often highlight specific “stressors” (causes of stress) relevant to local learners:

• Physical Stressors: Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, or illness.
• Social Stressors: Peer pressure and conflicts in detrimental relationships.
• Environmental Stressors: Noise, poverty, or safety concerns in the community.
• Economic Stressors: Concerns about funding options for tertiary education.

Reference for Students:

• Subject: Life Orientation Grade 12
• Prescribed Textbooks: Focus Life Orientation Grade 12 (Chapter 1) and Oxford Successful Life Orientation Grade 12.
• Topic: Development of the self in society – Stress Management.