Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is the connection between stressful life events and illness according to the stress-diathesis model?

1. Only genetic vulnerabilities lead to illness

2. Stressful events have no impact on health

3. Pre-existing vulnerabilities and stress interact to cause illness

4. Physical health is unaffected by psychological factors

The correct answer is: Pre-existing vulnerabilities and stress interact to cause illness

The stress-diathesis model posits that both genetic predispositions (or vulnerabilities) and environmental stressors interact to influence an individual's likelihood of developing a mental health disorder or other health problems. According to this model, an individual may have a genetic predisposition for a certain illness, but it is the interaction with stressful life events that can trigger the onset of the illness. This means that while some people may have a higher risk due to their genetic makeup, the presence of stressors in their life can exacerbate these vulnerabilities and lead to the manifestation of illness. This dynamic illustrates that health is not determined solely by genetics or environmental factors independently, but by how these factors work together, making the interaction crucial in understanding how stress impacts health outcomes. In contrast, the other options do not align with the core understanding of this model. Suggesting that only genetic vulnerabilities lead to illness neglects the significant role of stress. Claiming that stressful events have no impact on health overlooks a large body of research linking stress to various health outcomes. Finally, stating that physical health is unaffected by psychological factors dismisses the established connections between mental and physical health, further deviating from the principles of the stress-diathesis model.