Stress syndromes

Some methodological problems in epidemiological research on stress syndromes are reviewed. It is pointed out that syndromes defined on the basis of physiological findings may be difficult to relate to psychosocial problems. This is exemplified by the early asymptomatic stages of hypertension. Men with this syndrome seem to report fewer life problems than other men. This could be due to systematic underreporting. It is shown that different illnesses may have different psychosocial correlates. Research has shown that early endocrinological response patterns during stress periods may be beneficial in the long-term perspective.