Evaluate research with regards to the overall impact stress has on human beings. Explain how cultures can impact what is and what is not stressful. Identify 2 specific cultures and discuss with examples cultural differences with regards to the impact stress has on human beings.

Stress refers to a feeling of emotional or physical tension. This feeling usually comes from an event or an idea that makes us feel frustrated, angry or nervous. These pressures can force our bodies to react in particular ways, usually resulting in damage over long periods of time. However, stress can also be dependent on culture.

Different cultures find different situations stressful. For example, in some cultures, social acceptance or status is a constant source of stress, while in others, differences among individuals and lack of acceptance are not considered major problems.

As an example, we can look at the cultures of Japan and the United States.

In Japanese culture, social standing is an important source of stress. Japanese people feel a responsibility towards the rest of their community, which can lead them to prioritize others before themselves. The needs of the community and the approval of others can be important sources of stress.

On the other hand, in American culture, the individual tends to be prioritized. This means that Americans tend to feel more stressed when faced with personal problems, such as lack of individual success or prestige. This stems from a lack of personal recognition, rather than a sense of commitment or responsibility towards others.