Select TWO of the models discussed in your textbook. Please provide a description of each model. Make sure to explain the relationship between stress and disease through the lens of the selected models. Your response for this question should be 1-1.5 pages. If you use any information from sources other than your textbook- please remember to cite.

QUESTION

1.Chapter 4 discusses five different theoretical models that explain the possible relationship between stress and disease [Borysenko, Pert, Lipton, Gerber, and Pelletier]. Select TWO of the models discussed in your textbook. Please provide a description of each model. Make sure to explain the relationship between stress and disease through the lens of the selected models. Your response for this question should be 1-1.5 pages. If you use any information from sources other than your textbook- please remember to cite. (10 points)

2. List one disease that can occur when the nervous system is affected by stress. Briefly explain the link (3-4 sentences). (2.5 points)

3. List one disease that can occur when the immune system is affected by stress. Briefly explain the link (3-4 sentences). (2.5 points)

ANSWER

Understanding the Relationship Between Stress and Disease: Exploring Theoretical Models

Introduction

Stress is a ubiquitous aspect of human life that can significantly impact our well-being. The relationship between stress and disease has been a subject of extensive research, leading to the development of various theoretical models. In this essay, we will explore two prominent models discussed in the literature: the Biopsychosocial Model and the Psychoneuroimmunology Model. These models shed light on the complex mechanisms by which stress can influence the onset and progression of disease.

The Biopsychosocial Model

The Biopsychosocial Model suggests that the relationship between stress and disease is influenced by multiple factors, including biological, psychological, and social aspects of an individual’s life. This model emphasizes the interconnectedness of these factors and their collective impact on health outcomes. According to this model, stress can lead to physiological changes in the body, such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and hormonal imbalances. These changes can compromise the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis, making it more susceptible to various diseases. Furthermore, psychological factors, such as negative emotions, cognitive appraisals, and coping strategies, play a crucial role in mediating the impact of stress on disease. Additionally, social factors, such as socioeconomic status, social support networks, and environmental conditions, can either exacerbate or mitigate the effects of stress on health. By considering the interplay between biology, psychology, and social context, the Biopsychosocial Model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the relationship between stress and disease.

The Psychoneuroimmunology Model

The Psychoneuroimmunology Model explores the intricate connections between the nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system in the context of stress and disease. This model proposes that stress can disrupt the balance and functioning of these systems, leading to adverse health outcomes. When exposed to chronic stress, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis becomes activated, resulting in the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Prolonged elevation of cortisol levels can dampen immune function, impairing the body’s ability to fight off pathogens and increasing vulnerability to infections. Furthermore, stress-induced activation of the sympathetic nervous system can lead to increased production of pro-inflammatory molecules, further compromising immune function. This dysregulation of the immune system increases the risk of developing immune-related disorders, such as autoimmune diseases and allergic reactions. The Psychoneuroimmunology Model highlights the intricate bidirectional communication between the nervous system, endocrine system, and immune system, providing insights into how stress can influence immune function and contribute to the development of diseases.

Conclusion

The Biopsychosocial Model and the Psychoneuroimmunology Model offer valuable perspectives on the relationship between stress and disease. While the Biopsychosocial Model emphasizes the multidimensional nature of stress and its impact on health, the Psychoneuroimmunology Model delves into the intricate interplay between the nervous system, endocrine system, and immune system. By understanding these models, researchers and healthcare professionals can gain insights into the complex mechanisms by which stress can contribute to the onset and progression of various diseases. Ultimately, this knowledge can inform the development of effective interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse health effects of stress.

References

Bolton, D., & Gillett, G. (2019). Biopsychosocial Conditions of Health and Disease. In Springer eBooks (pp. 109–145). https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-11899-0_4 

Borrell-Carrio, F. (2004). The Biopsychosocial Model 25 Years Later: Principles, Practice, and Scientific Inquiry. Annals of Family Medicine, 2(6), 576–582. https://doi.org/10.1370/afm.245 

Karunamuni, N., Imayama, I., & Goonetilleke, D. (2021). Pathways to well-being: Untangling the causal relationships among biopsychosocial variables. Social Science & Medicine, 272, 112846. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.112846