Streituferlið

Streituferlið is a concept used in Icelandic psychology to describe the sequence of cognitive and physiological events through which a person experiences and copes with stress. Etymologically, streita means stress and ferlið means the process, giving a literal sense of the “stress process.” The term is used to distinguish the dynamic progression of stress from static notions of a single stress reaction. In research and clinical contexts, streituferlið emphasizes how perception, appraisal, and response unfold over time.

The model typically outlines stages such as primary appraisal (judging whether a situation is threatening), secondary appraisal (assessing personal resources and options), physiological arousal (activation of the autonomic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), coping responses (problem-focused or emotion-focused strategies), and reappraisal or recovery leading to adaptation or, in some cases, maladaptation. The progression is understood as fluid, with feedback loops where coping outcomes influence future appraisals and responses.

Influencing factors include social support, perceived control, prior experiences, and ongoing environmental demands. The progression can be explored using self-report measures, behavioral observations, and physiological indicators such as heart rate variability or cortisol levels, particularly in longitudinal studies.

Streituferlið relates to the transactional model of stress and coping and complements broader theories of stress, resilience, and health. In practice, it informs interventions in education, workplaces, and mental health by identifying critical points where coping resources can be strengthened.