Psychology Statistics data report project

Research Proposal

Independent variable 1: Sex

Independent variable 2: anxiety

Dependent variable: Stress

Question #1

My first independent variable (sex) and my dependent variable (stress) are related. Men and

women tend to experience stress differently. Similarly, men and women react differently to

stress.

I expect women to score higher than men on the dependent variable. Women suffer more stress

compared to men. A 2010 study discovered that women are more likely to experience an

increase in stress levels as compared to men. Women are also more likely to report emotional

and physical symptoms of stress compared to men (APA, 2012). The stress gap between men

and women is because their stress response is different. Women have a different hormonal

system that usually causes them to react more emotionally and become more fatigued.

Similarly, women are exposed to more stress-related factors since they assume several roles in

their daily life.

Question #2

My second independent variable (anxiety) is related to my dependent variable (stress). Anxiety

and stress can both cause severe physical and mental health issues, such as depression, muscle

tension, substance abuse, personality disorders, and insomia (Powell & Enright, 2015). Both are

emotions and normal responses that can become disruptive and overwhelming to day-to-day

life. They can interfere with important aspects of life, such as work, relationships,

responsibilities, and school.

An increase in anxiety can increase stress levels. Research indicates that excessive anxiety can

lead to stress-related symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, insomnia, irritability, muscle

tension, and fatigue. Individuals can manage their anxiety and stress with relaxation techniques.

This includes breathing exercises, yoga, physical activity, art therapy, meditation, and massage.

References

APA. (2012). 2010 Stress in America: Gender and Stress. Retrieved from:

https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2010/gender-stress

Powell, T., & Enright, S. (2015). Anxiety and stress management. Routledge.