stressor

Stressor

A stimulus or event that provokes a stress response in an organism. Stressors can be categorized as acute or chronic, and as external or internal to the organism.

Mentioned in: General Adaptation Syndrome

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stressor

[stres′ər]

Etymology: OFr, estrecier, to tighten

anything that causes wear and tear on the body's physical or mental resources. See also general adaptation syndrome.

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stressor

any factor that disturbs homeostasis producing stress. In animals there is a long list including nutritional, lactational and pregnancy stress, physical stressors including inclement climate, hard physical work such as endurance rides, racing, capture of wild animals, psychological including weaning, overcrowding, boredom, harassment by humans or other animals, absence of bedding or protection from drafts and poor ventilation.

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stressor

A thing that ↑ mental or physical stress–eg, environment, housing, personal, sexual, social, work related. See Stress management Psychology A noxious physical or mental trigger that compromises mental function and control. See Stress.