Is \"stress\" a situational factor (such as exam week) or is it a state of mind

Question

Is "stress" a situational factor (such as exam week) or is it a state of mind (feeling overwhelmed)? How can stress be objectively measured if people respond to the same situation differently? Another way to think of this question: would we NOT call a situation "stressful" if a person does not see it as bothersome or stressful? Why or why not?

What is the shortcoming of measuring stress by asking about events and circumstances of someone's life? What are disadvantages of measuring stress by asking people how they feel?

Is there a way to objectively measure stress, given these issues?

Explanation / Answer

In my view, stress tends to be more of a state of mind, even though it can be triggered by situational factors. Events that can potentially induce stress are experienced by every individual in their day to day life, however, people differ significantly in the way they perceive these situations and therefore respond to it. Despite the subjective nature of stress, it can still be measured objectively because during the measurement process, the stressful event itself is not measured and is therefore of little consequence. Rather, the individual’s reaction to these evens are of paramount importance.

Please post the other questions separately as we are supposed to answer just one question or four sub parts of a question.

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