Abstract

LIPP, Marilda E. Novaes. Stress management training as a clinical tool to reduce cardiovascular reactivity in hypertense adults. Temas psicol. [online]. 2001, vol.9, n.2, pp. 91-98. ISSN 1413-389X.

The link between arterial hypertension and personality traits has been emphasized in the literature, especially in regard to cardiovascular reactivity. Research on the psychological factors which are likely to increase blood pressure is of value so that preventive measures might be undertaken. The present study addressed the capability of social stress to elicit cardiovascular reactivity in hypertense individuais and the effects of stress management treatment on it. Average blood pressure of 20 slightly and moderate hypertense individuais was measured during experimental sessions that involved role-play of interpersonal stressful situations, which required assertive responses, before, and after the cognitive-behavioral treatment of stress. Results indicated that social stress can elicit excessive cardiovascular reactivity in hypertense individuais, which can be reduced by means of stress management treatment. It was also found that the majority of the participants were highly unassertive.

Keywords : social stress; cardiovascular reactivity; assertiveness; stress control.

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