Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 24, 2026

Assessment of Stress Effects on Cognitive Flexibility using an Operant Strategy Shifting Paradigm
Published on: May 4, 2020
The clinical application of the stress concept
11University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
Background:
Knowledge on fundamental aspects of the influence of 'stress' on animal and human organisms is accumulating. In clinical situations, however, psychiatrists still do not use apropriate instruments to recognize and handle the impact of daily life stress. DSM-IV is insufficient in this respect.
Objective:
A different approach is sketched for clinicians to be able to integrate knowledge from research more effectively.
Method:
Application of a 'broad' biological view may reveal the significance of interpretation, emotion, impulse and reaction as stages of a 'mental tract', which is involved in processing the input of stressful situations.
Result:
This may lead to a more rational 'targeting' of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic strategies in clinical practice.
Conclusion:
A re-orientation of clinical psychiatry from mere classification towards a 'broad' biological approach may pave the way for a more rational and purposeful application of research findings to therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Applications of Stress
The...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Psychological Responses to Stress
Components of Stress
Interestingly, the hidden cube faces also experience these stresses, equal and...
Physiological Foundation of Stress
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV

