"In Times Of Stress, Be Bold And Valiant": A Preliminary Exploration Of The Psychosocial And Physiological Measures Of Stress And Suggestions For Future Mis Research

Stress is a fact of life. Previous MIS research has examined stress, but has focused on the psychosocial aspects of stress, which are usually measures using self-reported metrics. This preliminary study examines the possible contrast between psychosocial and physiological stress-that is, the body's autonomic reaction to a potential threat. The study also examines the effectiveness of the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), a protocol designed to induce stress in social situations. Using a sample of thirty-two students, the results indicate that the TSST protocol is an effectiveness mechanism for inducing both psychosocial and physiological stress. The results also indicate that psychosocial and physiological stress are indeed different metrics. The study concludes with recommendations for future MIS researchers to build on these findings.