The timing and manifestation of health outcomes
In stress research, the measurement of health outcomes generally occurs over a very limited number
of occasions. Because of this, we know very little about the timing and manifestation of health
outcomes. For example, some responses to stress may develop, peak and subside over a period of
time, while others may asymptotically approach a maximum level as stress persists. This
intensification and diminution of health outcomes over time may be a function of the nature of the
stressor, the adaptability of the individual, the health outcome under consideration, or all three.
Depending on how we synchronize our health measures with the timing and manifestation of health
outcomes, we may fail or succeed to detect the impact of stress and coping on health. Perhaps the
low correlations between stress and health found in many studies (often less than 0.30) are partially
attributable to the measurement of health outcomes over an inappropriate time interval. Future
research should measure health outcomes over as many occasions as possible, thereby providing
information concerning the development and subsidence of health outcomes over time (Kessler,
1987).
CONCLUSION
In this editorial, we have identified several problems associated with current approaches to the study
of stress, coping, and health, and have suggested tentative solutions to these problems. Our intention
was not to critique specific theoretical or methodological approaches. Instead, we raised general
issues which cut across a variety of approaches, thereby appealing to a wider audience. It is hoped
that, by considering the issues we have raised, research workers will avoid potential problems and
explore new possibilities concerning the interrelationships between stress, coping, and health.