Relational Support and Cognitive Performance Under Stress
One of the key factors that determine how well people perform under stress is their level of social support. Relational support refers to the amount of positive, caring, and meaningful interaction an individual has with others. It can come from family members, friends, coworkers, romantic partners, or community members, among others. When individuals receive this type of support, they feel more connected, valued, and supported, which can enhance their cognitive performance under stress.
Research shows that relational support can improve attention, memory, decision making, problem solving, creativity, and task persistence.
One study found that participants who received emotional support while completing a difficult task performed better than those who did not receive it. Another study showed that social support improved cognitive performance after a traumatic event.
Relational support can reduce the negative effects of stress on emotions. Individuals who have strong relationships tend to experience less anxiety, depression, and irritability when facing challenges. They also report greater feelings of happiness, self-worth, and overall well-being. This is because relational support provides a sense of safety, security, and belonging, which helps buffer against the negative impact of stress.
Relational support can help regulate physiological responses to stress.
Studies show that individuals who receive support during stressful situations exhibit lower levels of cortisol (a hormone associated with stress) in their bloodstream. This suggests that social support may be able to counteract the negative physical effects of stress.
Relational support appears to play a significant role in enhancing cognitive and emotional performance under stress. By providing individuals with a sense of connection and support, they are better equipped to handle stressful situations and perform at their best.
In what ways does relational support enhance cognitive and emotional performance under stress?
Relational support refers to the emotional, social, and practical help received from others during times of difficulty, including during times of increased stress levels. Studies have shown that receiving such support can enhance both cognitive and emotional performance under stress. This is because it helps individuals feel less alone and isolated, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.