What is stress resistant personality?

Studies by Kobasa have shown that people with high levels of stress but low levels of illness are labelled as stress-resistant personality. They share three characteristics which are referred to as the personality traits of Hardiness.

Hardiness is a set of beliefs about oneself, the world and how they interact. It consists of 'the three C's:

Commitment:

• Commitment in terms of a sense of personal commitment to what one is doing.

• Stress-resistant personalities have commitment to work, family, hobbies and social life.

Control:

• An individual should have a sense of control over his life.

• Stress-resistant personalities have control in terms of a sense of purpose and direction in life.

Challenge:

• An individual should always be ready to face challenges in life.

• Stress-resistant personalities view changes in life as normal and positive rather than as a threat.