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Cognitive Appraisal of Stress

Meaning

Cognitive Appraisal of Stress refers to the psychological process by which an individual evaluates a potential or actual stressor and determines its personal meaning, significance, and controllability. This appraisal is the crucial intermediary step that dictates the intensity and nature of the subsequent physiological and hormonal stress response, including the activation of the HPA axis. The initial primary appraisal determines if the event is irrelevant, benign-positive, or stressful, while the secondary appraisal assesses the coping resources available to the individual. This subjective interpretation fundamentally shapes the body’s neuroendocrine output and, consequently, the allostatic load incurred.