Stress Vulnerability

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What kinds of people are relatively invulnerable to the harmful effects of stress? Psychologist Aaron Antonowsky has conducted a number of studies to determine the characteristics of people who, when faced with a distressing situation, remain healthy while others become distressed and ill.

From his studies, one distinct factor emerged as the crucial difference between these two groups. He called this a "sense of coherence." By a sense of coherence, Dr. Antonowsky means a basic philosophy or assumption about human nature and life which is one of confidence—1) confidence that one's internal and external environments are dependable and 2) confidence that it is highly probable that things will work out as well as can be reasonably expected. Such people do not retreat from life's struggles, but enter into these struggles with a sense of confidence, competence, and acceptance.

Ronald Pitzer
Family Sociologist

Originally published in May 1985

College of Human Ecology in cooperation with the University of Minnesota Extension Service

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