Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 4, 2026

The Social Dimension of Stress: Experimental Manipulations of Social Support and Social Identity in the Trier Social Stress Test
Published on: November 19, 2015
[Cardiovascular effects of active coping behavior in mental and social stress situations during various incentive
1Ludwig-Boltzmann-Institut für Angewandte Klinische Psychologie, Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz.
Abstract:
The main purpose of this study was to examine the cardiovascular effects of active coping behavior during mental and social challenge. Furthermore, the additional effects of monetary incentives were explored. A total of 80 normotensive male students of the ages 19 to 30 years served as subjects. Statistical analyses revealed strong task-specific effects on systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) as well as heart rate (HR). Compared to Mental Arithmetic and Preparing a Discussion Task, social challenges during Discussion lead to exaggerated increases in SBP (37.6 mmHg) and HR (26.1 bpm) coupled with intermediate elevations in DBP (18.0 mmHg). Monetary incentives were associated with enhanced HR reactivity. The intra-task correlation pattern showed a remarkable across-task stability of correlations between SBP and HR reactivity scores, with an apparent lack of significant correlations between SBP and DBP reactivity scores. Results of inter-task correlations supported the hypothesis of specific cardiovascular response patterns that might be indicative of different aspects of active coping with mental and social stress.
Related Concept Videos
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Psychological Responses to Stress
Coping Strategies: Problem Focused
For example, consider a student who struggles to understand their...
Coping Strategies: Emotion Focused
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques I
Conscientiousness
Conscientious individuals tend to be organized, responsible, and disciplined. They prioritize completing tasks and following structured routines,...

