STRESS IN MODERN SOCIETY AND ITS IMPACT ON PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY
Abstract
In the context of modern society, stress has permeated almost all spheres of human life, exerting a profound influence on personality psychology, mental health, and social relationships. Although stress represents the organism’s adaptive response to external or internal threats, its chronic and intense forms may create conditions for the development of various psychopathological states. Personality characteristics—particularly the Big Five traits (neuroticism, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness), as well as personality types such as A, B, C, and D—play a significant role in shaping how stress is perceived, appraised, and managed. Research indicates that individuals with high neuroticism and those with Type A personalities, characterized by competitiveness and impatience, show greater vulnerability to stress, negative affect, and maladaptive coping strategies. In contrast, Type B individuals and those with certain positive personality traits tend to demonstrate relatively more stable responses to stress. The relationship between personality and stress is bidirectional: not only does personality influence the stress process, but prolonged stress can also alter personality characteristics over time. This article analyzes sources of stress in modern society, its impact on personality psychology, the complex interaction between personality traits and stress, as well as adaptive coping strategies and psychological resilience. Drawing on a synthesis of theoretical frameworks and large-scale empirical studies, the article highlights the central importance of personality factors in understanding stress and reducing its negative effects.
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