RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Stress.
JF Journal of Medical Ethics
JO J Med Ethics
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics
SP 156
OP 159
DO 10.1136/jme.18.3.156
VO 18
IS 3
A1 B G Charlton
YR 1992
UL http://jme.bmj.com/content/18/3/156.abstract
AB 'Stress' is a widely used word in clinical practice, the biological sciences and everyday life; but one which has little real value, serving mainly to confuse and confound rational thought. Whether it is described in terms of stimulus, response, or a combination of the two the definitions of stress are invariably found to be circular. We should stop using the word 'stress' and instead discuss specific stimuli or responses as appropriate. The author suggests that 'pressure' and 'tension' might provide suitable substitutes for everyday clinical practice.