Biological Psychology 2- Stresss and Immunity

Immunity

The immune system is a collection of cells, such as white blood cells, which travel with the bloodstream to defend against antigens.

Research:

Kiecolt-Glaser et al (1984) :

• 75 American medical students
• Activity levels of NK cells measured before and during the exam periods (Long term Stress)
• NK levels were found to decrease, therefore immunity is lowNK cells- Natural killer cells. These are responsible for for destroying infected cells.

Evans et al (1994):

• Students asked to give talks
• SigA levels measured before and during the periods of the talks (Mild stress)
• SigA levels increase, therefore immunity increases

Evaluation:

• Time validity- Both pieces of research were conducted 18-28 years ago, However more recent research by Kiecolt-Glaser (2005), were immunity was measured when the was marital conflicts, still show a decrease in immunity for Chronic stress.
• GAS Model- The General Adaption syndrome model suggests that our ability to cope with stress decreases over time, This is supported by this research as a short term stressor increases immunity but a long term stressor decreases immunity.
• Ethnocentrism- Kiecolt-Glaser's research is based on American students, therefore it can be argued that her results can not be…