vulnerability-stress interaction theory

Vulnerability-stress interaction theory explains that mental health issues develop through the combined effects of a person’s innate vulnerabilities (like genetics or personality traits) and stressful life events. Someone with higher vulnerabilities is more susceptible to developing problems when facing stress. Conversely, lower vulnerabilities might protect against issues even during stressful times. Essentially, mental health results from how an individual’s inherent predispositions interact with their environment, meaning that both personal characteristics and life circumstances influence the likelihood of experiencing psychological difficulties.