Stress Appraisal Theory

Stress Appraisal Theory explains how individuals evaluate a situation to determine if it is stressful. When faced with a potential challenge or threat, people assess whether they have the resources to handle it (primary appraisal) and how capable they are of managing it (secondary appraisal). If they perceive the situation as overwhelming or beyond their abilities, it leads to stress. Conversely, if they believe they can cope, they experience less or no stress. This process influences emotional and behavioral responses, shaping how we experience and manage stress in everyday life.