The social psychology of stress, health, and coping

Deborah Carr

Debra Umberson

pp. 465-487

in: Amanda Ward (ed), Handbook of social psychology, Berlin, Springer, 2013

Abstract

The study of stress and health is one of the richest areas of research in the social and biomedical sciences. In this chapter, we first describe core concepts in the study of stress, coping, and health. Second, we summarize key theoretical perspectives that frame social psychological research on stress and health. Third, we review the methods and measures used, as well as limitations associated with these approaches. We draw on examples of empirical studies exploring stressors across multiple life domains, including early life adversity, work, family, and environmental strains, and show their impact on a range of physical and mental health outcomes. We also highlight gender, race, SES, and life course differences regarding the prevalence and nature of stress, coping resources, and stress outcomes. We conclude by suggesting directions for future research on stress, health and coping.