2. Diathesis-Stress Model

The 2 x 2 Model

High Diathesis + High Stress = Highest loading High Diathesis + Low Stress = Some loading Low Diathesis + High Stress = Some loading Low Diathesis + Low Stress = Minimal/Absent -ex) given knife or no knife (diathesis) and timer or no timer (stress) to create a sandwich

Example of D-S Model

If someone has a parent w/ high blood pressure, they have a 45% chance of developing high blood pressure, even if they have good health - If they have a stressful life and type A personality, risk could increase to 75%

Definition of D-S Model

Suggests that a biological vulnerability (the diathesis), in combination with psychosocial or environmental stress (psychological stressors such as divorce, financial troubles, & unemployment), creates the necessary conditions for illness to occur.