Stress Amplifier Result

The 5 stress amplifiers and what is behind them

1. Be perfect! (Performance)
   The stress amplifier consists of a strongly exaggerated desire for success, self-affirmation and recognition by others, which must be achieved through appropriate performance. Associated with this is a pronounced fear of failure and one’s own mistakes
2. Be popular! (Connection)
   The stress amplifier consists of a strong desire to belong, to be accepted and to be loved. This leads to fear of rejection, criticism and rejection by others.
3. Be strong! (Autonomy)
   The stress amplifier consists in a strong desire for personal independence and self-determination. Accordingly, there is a fear of dependence on others, of one’s own need for help, and of weakness.
4. Watch out! (Control)
   The stress amplifier consists in a great need for security and control, which results in a pronounced fear of loss of control, wrong decisions and aversion to risks.
5. I can’t do it! (Self-protection)
   The stress amplifier consists in a strongly exaggerated desire for one’s own well-being and a comfortable life. Consequently, fear of unpleasant feelings, of effort, of one’s own helplessness and a low frustration tolerance develop.

Based on: Gert Kaluza (2007): Gelassen und sicher im Stress. Das Stresskompetenz-Buch. Heidelberg: Springer