Mapping stress-mindset definitions, measurements and associated factors: a scope review

Abstract

Since the stress-mindset theory was proposed in 2012, stress-is-enhancing perspectives, rather than detrimental, are linked to positive health outcomes. As a novel concept, mapping key framework components is necessary to identify gaps and recommend future studies. to map stress-mindset definitions, measurements, and associated factors leveraging data from the literature. Using the JBI scope review methodology, literature databases, and repositories were searched. Eligible were quantitative and qualitative studies, regardless of age, sex, or race, and studies that assessed the individuals’ perspective of stress (enhancing vs. detrimental). From 847 identified studies, 82 were included that assessed young (18+), adults, and older adults, mainly from the USA and Europe. Two studies proposed concept frameworks, defining stress-mindset as the attributes and expectations ascribed to the nature of stress itself as enhancing or debilitating, where the individual actively shapes their perspectives to achieve health and wellbeing. Stress-mindset is modifiable and different from the cognitive appraisal, stress levels, and coping. Three stress-mindset scales were found with valid and reliable indicators. A stress-enhancing mindset was associated with better health cognitive (e.g., mental flexibility,attention, decision-making), psychological (e.g., life’s satisfaction and mood), and biological outcomes (e.g., stress hormones and cardiac functioning; p<0.05). Stress-mindset is an independent and modifiable component of stress response liked to cognitive, psychological, and biological outcomes. Although stress-mindset is a promising target for interventions, longitudinal studies analyzing sex differences in diverse populations are necessary to understand stress-mindset moderators, stability over time, and the long-term impact on health and wellbeing.