Question

Studies of British civil servants have found that those in the lowest status jobs are much more likely to develop heart disease than those who have high status jobs. These findings attest to the importance of ____________ in dealing with stress. a. biofeedback b. social support c. perceived control d. emotion-focused coping

Short answer

The answer is c. perceived control.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the question

First, we need to understand what the question is asking. Here it is inquiring about which coping mechanism is most likely to be beneficial in dealing with stress, according to the observed data of British civil servants and their likelihood of developing heart disease.

Analyze the options

Next, take a look at the provided options. Biofeedback refers to the process of gaining greater awareness of physiological functions with the goal of manipulating them at will, whereas social support is the availability of help from family, friends or colleagues. Perceived control is one's belief in their capability to control or influence events and circumstances in life. Emotion-focused coping involves coping strategies that help reduce negative emotional responses associated with stress like avoidance, minimization, distance, and Positive Focus.

Choose the option best suited to the situation

Lastly, we need to choose the answer that best matches the situation described in the exercise. Given the context of the question, it is reasonable to believe that 'perceived control' most closely applies to the situation here, as people in higher status jobs are likely to have more control over their situations and thus experience less stress, thereby reducing their risk of developing heart disease.

Key concepts

Perceived Control

Perceived control is the belief that one can influence the events and outcomes in their life. This concept plays a significant role in how individuals manage stress.
When people feel they have control over a situation, they tend to experience less stress and anxiety. ### Importance of Perceived Control - **Stress Reduction**: Knowing you have the power to make decisions reduces feelings of helplessness.
- **Empowerment**: It empowers individuals to take proactive steps in managing circumstances.
- **Health Benefits**: Higher perceived control is linked to lower risks of health issues, like heart disease, particularly in lower-status jobs where control is typically limited. Perceived control encourages a proactive stance toward challenges, leading to enhanced problem-solving abilities and improved well-being.

Coping Mechanisms

Coping mechanisms are strategies people use to manage stress and emotional distress. They can be effective in helping individuals adapt to changes or overcome difficult situations. ### Types of Coping Mechanisms - **Problem-Focused**: This involves tackling the source of stress head-on. For instance, finding solutions or seeking advice.
- **Emotion-Focused**: These strategies aim to reduce the emotional impact of stress, like practicing relaxation or seeking emotional support.
Choosing the right coping mechanism depends on the situation and individual preferences. Effectively using these tools can greatly improve one's mental health and resilience to stress.

Health and Stress

Health and stress are intricately linked, influencing each other in various ways. Prolonged stress can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to illnesses. ### Consequences of Stress - **Physical Health**: Long-term stress can lead to chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension.
- **Mental Health**: It can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Managing stress effectively is crucial for maintaining good health. Incorporating lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep, can significantly reduce stress levels.

Social Status and Health

Social status is a determinant of health and well-being. Those in higher social standings often have better health outcomes compared to those in lower standings. ### Social Status Influences - **Access to Resources**: Higher social status provides greater access to resources and healthcare services.
- **Influence and Control**: With higher status often comes greater control over work and life circumstances, which impacts stress levels positively. Lower social status jobs, as seen in studies, are linked to higher stress and increased risk of health issues such as heart disease. Improving social support and perceived control can help mitigate these health disparities.