While there isn't a single "father" of stress theory, Hans Selye is widely recognized as the pioneer of the field. In the 1930s, he coined the term "stress" and developed the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), a model describing the body's response to stressors.
Selye's research focused on the physiological effects of stress, identifying three distinct stages:
- Alarm Stage: The initial reaction to stress, characterized by the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
- Resistance Stage: The body adapts to the stressor, attempting to maintain homeostasis.
- Exhaustion Stage: If the stressor persists, the body's resources become depleted, leading to exhaustion and potential health problems.
Selye's work revolutionized our understanding of stress and its impact on the body. His research laid the foundation for further exploration of stress, leading to various advancements in stress management and coping mechanisms.
