Stress: Researching of the Conservation of Resources Theory

Stress, according to the conservation of resources theory, is the cognitive and emotional reaction that arises as a result of a survival reaction. The manner in which individuals assess the risks they face is an essential part of the transactional model. To examine the theories, it is possible to compare the first article, which is “Transactional theory and research on emotions and coping,” with “The influence of culture, community, and the nested‐self in the stress process.” The first study focuses on an individual perspective. Meanwhile, the second examines cultural interpretations of stress overall.

Concerning the comparison of both works, the second research emphasizes the conservation of resources theory as more valuable. The main assumptions of the cognitive-relational hypothesis of emotion and coping are examined in the first article, as well as the progress made in analyzing them over the course of ten years of empirical study (Lazarus & Folkman, 1987). According to the study, people should be evaluated across time in the context of their life experiences, which include consistent aim hierarchies that influence assessments of what is significant and unimportant in their lifestyles (Lazarus & Folkman, 1987).

In contrast, the second paper describes the conservation of resources theory as a concept that differs from many other related stress models in the manner that it has clear, practical implications and findings (Hobfoll, 2001). In this work, scholars note that the theory of conservation of resources refers to an investigation of widespread cultural perceptions of environmental problems that cause stress (Hobfoll, 2001). Thus, the first study concentrates on an approach that relates to individuals, whereas the second relates to general cultural interpretations of stress.

Highlighting the question, it is possible to state: what can be the practical examples of interventions that alter a person’s resources or surroundings in terms of the conservation of resources theory? In addition, it is important to examine how the transactional model analyzes stress perception, response, and adaptation. Finally, what are the main differences between a cognitive appraisal and coping and how do they relate to emotional reaction and stress?

In conclusion, it is possible to state that the second research prioritizes the conservation of resources theory as a more valuable concept. The first article examines the key assumptions of the cognitive-relational hypothesis of emotion and coping. Scholars highlight in the second work that the theory of resource conservation relates to an analysis of broad cultural conceptions of environmental issues that potentially lead to stress.

References

Hobfoll, S. E. (2001). The influence of culture, community, and the nested self in the stress process: Advancing conservation of resources theory. Applied Psychology, 50(3), 337-421. Web.

Lazarus, R. S., & Folkman, S. (1987). Transactional theory and research on emotions and coping. European Journal of Personality, 1(3), 141-169. Web.