Psychological stress and neuronal plasticity. An expanded model of the stress reaction process as the basis for understand central nervous system adaptation processes

A short survey on results and theories in psychosomatic and neurobiologic stress research is presented. Based on a comprehensive definition of the stress-reaction process, the biological and psychological consequences are described which are elicited by either controllable or uncontrollable stress. We conclude that controllable stress triggers the stabilization and facilitation of neuronal networks involved in the generation of appropriate patterns of appraisal and coping, whereas uncontrollable stress favours the extinction of inappropriate patterns and the reorganisation of neuronal connections underlying certain inappropriate behaviors. Both, controllable an uncontrollable stress-reaction-processes are therefore essential prerequisites of, and inherent challenges to, the development and adaptation of an individual in an ever changing external world but may also lead to psychodevelopmental failures and psychosomatic diseases.