Identification of stress buffers

A large amount of research has been published about the role of intervening variables as buffers for the effects of stress precursors on adverse stress impacts. A review revealed that most of these reports focused on single candidates or a subjectively selected constellation of variables using narrow definitions of both precursors and impacts with a variety of statistical procedures. A set of 22 variables was investigated to determine the relative importance of each as a stress buffer, using broadened measures for precursors and impacts. Discriminant analysis with t-test follow-up of data from 668 normally functioning men and women indicated the existence of 7 strong and 7 moderate buffers and a differential effect by sex. Reanalysis, comparing the results from other statistical procedures, concluded that there were 4 "true" buffers: sense of competence, exercise pattern, sense of purpose, and leisure activity. Eleven of the 22 demonstrated main effects independent of stress. This study discusses the importance of using standard statistical procedures with comprehensive measures in order to further knowledge about the human stress process.