Page 438 - Understanding Psychology

the disorder overwhelms a person’s normal sense of reality and ability to cope. The high stress levels associated with this disorder could result in a range of psychosomatic symptoms, such as insomnia, high blood pressure, and stomach problems.
BEHAVIORAL REACTIONS
There are many short-term behavioral changes that result from stress. A person may develop nervous habits (trembling or pacing, for example), gulp meals, smoke or drink more, take drugs, or feel tired for no reason. That person may develop a shaky voice, tremors, or strained expressions. There may be changes in his or her posture. He or she may temporarily lose interest in eating, grooming, bathing, and so on. Aggression toward family members is another way some people react to stress.
Some behavioral reactions are positive, however. In a tornado, for example, some people will risk their lives to save or help others. Such stressors often create attitudes of cooperation that override individual differences and disagreements.
Escape is another behavioral stress reaction, and it is often the best way to deal with frustration. For example, a woman who is on a bus that is caught in snarled traffic may get off and walk to her destination.
Figure 15.7 How Will This Affect Them?
In September 2001, terrorists flew two hijacked airplanes into the World Trade Center in New York City. Many survivors may suffer from the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder. What is post-traumatic stress disorder, and whom does it affect?
424 Chapter 15 / Stress and Health