Approximate reading time: 3 minutes

Part 3 – Lazarus Model Analysis with Ti and Carli

To illustrate the Lazarus model of stress appraisal, let’s revisit the experiences of Ti and Carli as they move to university residence.

Ti’s Experience (Lazarus Model)

• Primary Appraisal: Ti views the move to university residence as a significant threat to their well-being. They are concerned about leaving their familiar environment, adjusting to a new social setting, and managing academic responsibilities in an unknown place. For Ti, the move represents potential harm, loss of comfort, and a fear of not fitting in.
• Secondary Appraisal: Ti feels uncertain about their ability to adapt to this new life. They worry about making new friends, keeping up with academic demands, and living independently for the first time. This perception of limited coping resources and strategies amplifies their stress, leading them to view the move as more overwhelming and threatening.

Carli’s Experience (Lazarus Model)

• Primary Appraisal: Carli, facing the same situation, appraises the move as a challenge and an opportunity for growth. They are excited about meeting new people, exploring a new environment, and gaining independence. For them, the move is associated with positive outcomes and personal development, rather than harm or loss.
• Secondary Appraisal: Carli assesses their coping abilities as strong. They feel confident in their social skills, ability to adapt, and manage their studies. This belief in their coping abilities leads them to view the move as a manageable and even an exciting challenge, reducing any potential stress.

In Lazarus’ model, the stress experience is not solely determined by the external event (moving to university residence) but by how Ti and Carli appraise this event. Ti’s appraisal of the move as a threat with limited coping resources leads to higher stress levels. In contrast, Carli’s appraisal of the move as a challenge, coupled with a belief in their coping abilities, results in lower stress levels or even positive anticipation.

Conclusion

This model highlights the subjective nature of stress. It shows that stress is a dynamic process, where the individual’s evaluation of both the situation and their ability to cope plays a crucial role. Ti and Carli’s differing appraisals and perceived coping resources lead to their distinct emotional and physiological responses to the same external event. This understanding underscores the importance of perception and personal evaluation in the experience of stress.