Kiecolt-Glaser etal(1984)
The study by KIecolt-Glaser et al suggested that stress could have negative effect on people by producing a lowered immune response.
AIM:
To investigate whether stress of important examinations has an effect on the functioning of the immune system.
PROCEDURE:
- This was a natural experiment. The researchers took blood samples from 75 first year medical students, all of whom were volunteers.
- Blood sample were taken:
(a) One menthe before their final examination (relatively low stress)
(b) During the examinations(high stress)
- Immune function was assessed by meaning T cell activity in the blood samples.
- The students were also given questionnaires to assess psychological variables such as life events and loneliness.
FINDING:
The blood sample taken from the first group ( before the exam) contained more T cells compared with blood samples taken during the exam.
CONCLUSION:
Stress(of the exam) reduced the effectiveness of the immune system.
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