According to Hans Selye, what is stress?

Hans Selye's definition of stress focuses on the concept of a nonspecific response to any demand placed on the body. He developed the General Adaptation Syndrome theory, which outlines how the body reacts to stressors in a similar manner, regardless of the source. This framework highlights that stress is not solely tied to emotional or psychological factors but rather a biological response involving a range of physiological changes that occur when the body perceives a demand or challenge, whether that be physical, psychological, or environmental.

This perspective emphasizes the adaptability of the human body and its ability to respond to various types of stressors, reinforcing the idea that stress can stem from diverse sources without being limited to any single emotional or physical experience.