History of the Stress-Vulnerability Model
The Stress-Vulnerability Model was developed in 1977 by Zubin and Spring to explain the development of schizophrenia. After its initial introduction to the mental health world, the model extended to include a broad range of psychiatric diagnoses.
Criticism of the Stress-Vulnerability Model
While the Stress-Vulnerability Model has been instrumental in helping us better understand psychiatric ailments, it hasn’t been without its critics.
The Term ‘Vulnerability’ Is Limiting
A 2022 article published in Frontiers in Sociology found the model’s focus on vulnerability to be disempowering. Noting the nearly 50 years that have passed since the model was introduced, the article found the model’s emphasis on vulnerability to be a distraction from the actual harm at hand.
What Are the Elements of the Stress-Vulnerability Model?
According to the Stress-Vulnerability Model, biological vulnerability and stressors are responsible for developing a psychiatric disorder. Then, protective factors are what can help reduce biological vulnerability and stress.
Biological Vulnerability
Biological vulnerability refers to one’s genetic predisposition. For example, bipolar disorder is known to have a genetic link and is often passed down in families.
Stress
While stress can contribute to developing a mental health disorder, it isn’t the only factor at play. For example, someone may already have a genetic predisposition to a mental health disorder, but they have not developed it yet. Examples of these life stressors include:
Life crises (e.g., death of a loved one, major illness)Substance usePersonal and job-related stressors
When this significant life crisis occurs, some of the disorder’s symptoms can emerge. However, remember that the probability of this depends on the type of psychiatric condition the person is predisposed to.
Protective Factors
Protective factors are critical in reducing both stress and biological vulnerability. Protective factors can include:
A support system with individuals who have strong communication skills A structured daily routine A low-stress lifestyle
A Word From Verywell
If you’re experiencing stress or trauma, please know that you are not alone. A mental health professional can help support you in your healing process.
Assess your current points of stress and take a look at your community resources. For example, if food insecurity is a stressor, does your community offer any discounted or free food provisions? If you’re not sure, take a look at any community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. These programs will sometimes offer weekly boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables at a steeply discounted price. What is your support system like? If you’re looking around and feeling under-supported by others, it may be worth looking into a support or therapy group. Both of these offer the opportunity to build closeness and community with others while focusing on your healing. Do you have any hobbies or talents? Perhaps you love creating art and find it to be a strong emotional outlet. Also, running might be a source of stress relief. Regardless of what your chosen hobby is, see how you can lean into it to support yourself.
