Stress Management and Prevention

David D. Chen, PhD, is a professor of kinesiology at California State University—Fullerton.

“This third edition has evolved into a more ‘mindfulness’ approach to stress management within a positive psychology framework. The student centered explanations to the neuroscience underlying the concepts are presented at a level of complexity that is appreciated by science majors, but reasonably comprehensible to the non-science major as well. The video-based activities and the ‘Reflection’ exercises provide self-assessment of individual stress levels, which enhances active student engagement. Text content addresses multiple individual and interpersonal health belief models, thus successfully linking theory to practice.”—Ellen Lee, RN, MS, Ed.D., CHES, adjunct faculty, Department of Health Science, California State University, Fullerton"An excellent book from which all students of stress management will benefit. From clearly presented theories and concepts to vivid, real-world examples, the information provided by Dr. Chen is stimulating and thought-provoking. Dr. Chen takes more of a positive psychological perspective when presenting stress management topics, not leaving out cultural differences that may exist. The highlighted Reflection boxes are especially helpful in allowing students time to ponder over the information recently read and applying it to their everyday life experiences."—Dr. Steven J. Radlo, PhD, associate professor of stress management and sport & exercise psychology, Western Illinois University“Stress Management and Prevention: Applications to Daily Life is a well-organized and remarkable tool for teaching stress management. Students will find the material interesting to read and the exercises throughout the text useful and impactful. Dr. Chen's book delivers scientific research about the effects of stress, along with holistic modalities designed to help students increase their coping skills and the quality of their lives.”—Karen Fazio, MSG, HHP, gerontologist, holistic health practitioner, health science and gerontology instructor, California State University, Fullerton“Stress Management and Prevention by Dr. Chen is both insightful and comprehensive, while being understandable and straightforward. He has written a book that anyone can digest, regardless of their stress management knowledge. The real-life examples are immediately applicable, allowing for instant absorption. A fantastic piece of work.”—Gina Harmston, MS, Department of Kinesiology, Department of Health Science, California State University, Fullerton

• A Personal Introduction—from the Author to the Students About the Author I: Understanding the Nature of Stress 1. The Meaning of Stress 2. The Body’s Reactions to Stress 3. Sources of Stress across the Lifespan 4. Adaptive and Maladaptive Behavior 5. Individual and Cultural Differences II: Strategies of Stress Management and Prevention 6. Challenging Stressful Thinking 7.Problem Solving and Time Management 8. Psychological and Spiritual Relaxation Methods 9. Physical Methods for Stress Reduction 10. Preparing for the Future: College and Occupational Stress 11. Care of the Self: Nutrition and Other Lifestyle Issues 12. Stress and Conflict in Relationships III: Strategies of Synthesis and Prevention 13.Resilience and Stress 14.Optimal Functioning and Lasting Changes Glossary