Lazarus and Folkman's Transactional Model of Stress and Coping

Lazarus and Folkman's Transactional Model of Stress and Coping explains that stress arises from how we interpret and respond to challenges. When faced with a potential stressor, we evaluate whether it poses a threat or is manageable (primary appraisal). If it is, we then assess whether we have the resources to handle it (secondary appraisal). Our coping depends on this process—either tackling the problem directly or managing our emotional response. The model emphasizes that stress isn’t just about the situation itself but also about our thoughts, perceptions, and coping strategies, which influence our emotional well-being.