Active learning ideas
Stress is an inevitable part of life, but how we perceive and respond to it makes all the difference. This topic introduces the 'Cognitive Theory of Stress' by Lazarus, which emphasizes that stress is not in the event itself but in our 'appraisal' of it. Students also study the biological side of stress through Hans Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), which explains how the body reacts to long-term pressure. They identify various sources of stress, from major life events like exams to 'daily hassles' like traffic or noisy neighbours.
Activity 01
The teacher announces a surprise 'mock test'. Students immediately write down their first thought (Primary Appraisal) and their plan to handle it (Secondary Appraisal). They then compare how different appraisals lead to different stress levels.
How does Lazarus's cognitive theory explain the stress appraisal process?
Activity 02
Groups identify unique stressors faced by different people in India (e.g., a farmer, a board exam student, a commuter in Mumbai). They categorise these into Physical, Environmental, and Social stressors.
What are the three stages of Selye's General Adaptation Syndrome?
Activity 03
Three stations represent Alarm Reaction, Resistance, and Exhaustion. At each station, students must list the physical symptoms and long-term health risks associated with that stage of Selye's model.
How do daily hassles compare to major life events as sources of stress?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
All stress is bad for you.
Low levels of stress, called 'eustress', can improve performance and alertness. Using a 'Stress-Performance Curve' graph activity helps students see the 'sweet spot' where stress is actually helpful.
Stress is caused by external events only.
Stress is largely determined by our internal 'appraisal' or interpretation of the event. Peer-sharing of how two people react differently to the same event (like a rainy day) helps illustrate this.
Methods used in this brief
Coping with Stress
Students will explore different coping strategies, including task-oriented, emotion-oriented, and avoidance-oriented approaches. The topic also covers stress management techniques like relaxation, meditation, and biofeedback.
8 methodologies
Promoting Positive Health and Well-being
This topic focuses on the factors that facilitate positive health, such as diet, exercise, positive attitude, and social support. Students will understand the concept of resilience and its role in overcoming adversity.
8 methodologies