Stress and Short Term Memory

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the different types and causes of stress and looks at their impact on the body. In particular, it reviews the literature and proposes a study to investigate the effects of physical and mental stress on both short and long-term memory.

Outline:
What is Stress?
Types of Stress
Symptoms of Stress
Stress and Memory
Analysis of Questionnaire
Analysis of Pulse Rate
Analysis of Blood Pressure
Analysis of Salivary Cortisol Levels
Results of Memory Clinic Tests
Limitations of the Study
Suggestions For Additional Research
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"On a lighter note, research has found that the Cortisol induced inhibition of short-term memory is reversible. Elzinga documented that though working memory was inhibited in the Stress State, the rats returned to normal functioning after only ten days of non-stress situations (2005). Signifying with appropriate coping and managing stress individuals can ensure their health. There are a number of ways in which individuals can reduce the effects of stress in their lives. Exercise, proper diet and relaxation techniques can help with releases for built up tension and stress for individuals. Exercise has proven very effective in stress reduction."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brennan, Pl, Schutte, K., & Moore, R. (2006). Long-Term Patterns and Predictors of Successful Stressor Resolution in Later Life. International Journal of Stress Management, 13(3), 253-272.
• Elzinga, B., Roelofs, K. (2005). Cortisol-Induced Impairments of Working memory Require Acute Sympathetic Activation. Behavioural neuroscience, 119(1), 98-103.
• Gunnar, M. , Quevedo, K. The Neurobiology of stress and Development. Annual Review of Psychology. Palo Alto: 2007. Vol. 58 pg. 145
• Grant, S. & Langan-Fox, J. (2007). Personality and the Occupational Stressor-Strain Relationship: The Role of the Big Five. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 12(1), 20-33.
• Het, S., & Wolf, O. (2007). Mood Changes in Response to Psychosocial Stress in HealthyYoung Women: Effects of Pretreatment With Cortisol. Behavioral Neuroscience, 121(1), 11-20.

More papers on Stress and Short Term Memory:

• Research Proposal # 122622 : "Short Term Memory and Stress"
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• Term Paper # 102289 : "Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)"

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