14.1.9

Physiological Measures of Stress

Test yourself

Physiological Measures of Stress

Stress can be measured using physiological markers such as heart rate, blood pressure, hormone levels and skin conductance.

Illustrative background for Heart rateIllustrative background for Heart rate ?? "content

Heart rate

  • High heart rate is a product of the ‘fight or flight’ sympathomedullary pathway and indicates stress.
  • Heart rate can be measured through a transmitter strapped to the chest measuring electrical impulses.
Illustrative background for Blood pressureIllustrative background for Blood pressure ?? "content

Blood pressure

  • High blood pressure is a byproduct of prolonged stress.
  • Blood pressure can be measured using an inflatable cuff on the arm that limits blood flow. As air is released from the cuff, a pulse rate is measured in the arm - this signals blood pressure.
Illustrative background for Hormone levelsIllustrative background for Hormone levels ?? "content

Hormone levels

  • Levels of cortisol and adrenaline can be measured and high levels are linked to stress.
  • Urine and blood samples are taken and tested for these hormones.
Illustrative background for Skin conductanceIllustrative background for Skin conductance ?? "content

Skin conductance

  • Skin conductance response (SCR) can be measured using electrodes strapped to the middle and index fingers.
  • An increase in sweat in these fingers (caused by the 'fight or flight' response) affects the electric resistance of the skin and increases conductance.
  • So, increased conductance is linked to increased stress.

Jump to other topics

1Social Influence

2Memory

3Attachment

4Psychopathology

5Approaches in Psychology

6Biopsychology

7Research Methods

8Issues & Debates in Psychology (A2 only)

9Option 1: Relationships (A2 only)

10Option 1: Gender (A2 only)

11Option 1: Cognition & Development (A2 only)

12Option 2: Schizophrenia (A2 only)

13Option 2: Eating Behaviour (A2 only)

14Option 2: Stress (A2 only)

15Option 3: Aggression (A2 only)

16Option 3: Forensic Psychology (A2 only)

17Option 3: Addiction (A2 only)

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson