The absence of transactions resulted in increased stress, another essential concept of King’s interpersonal system. Harry’s admission to the psychiatric inpatient unit proved to be a very stressful event for both the client and the nurses. Harry’s
stress was primarily related to an inability to perceive and understand the term HIV infection, but it was also affected by the initial behaviors of the nurses and other clients in the ward. The nurses’ stress increased as they attempted to suppress their negative attitudes and sensitivities and deliver care in a nonjudgmental manner. Their stress also was increased by their inability to curtail Harry’s sexually provocative behavior and by the angry response of the client group. Increased stress levels produced role conflict.