Final answer:
Patrice and Mike, after a stressful day at work, are likely to face negative effects on their relationship such as arguments, lack of support, and health issues. Prolonged stress can lead to increased risk of heart problems and weaken the immune system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Effects of Stress on Relationships::
According to psychological research, Patrice and her partner Mike, who have both had a very stressful day at work, are likely to experience negative outcomes in their relationship. Prolonged or intense stress can lead to outcomes such as disagreements or arguments, lack of emotional support, and a breakdown of reciprocity in the relationship. Over time, stress can not only affect the emotional wellbeing but can also manifest in physical health issues.
Research, including a large-scale study of British civil servants, has indicated that those who reported higher levels of negative interactions in their closest relationships were at a significantly increased risk of heart problems. Furthermore, daily hassles, particularly those involving interpersonal conflicts, can lead to distressed moods and deteriorate physical and psychological health. These daily stressors often have a greater impact on health than major life changes.
Being constantly exposed to stressful situations without the ability to fight or flee, as in modern psychological stress scenarios, has been linked with negative health consequences such as increased susceptibility to heart disease and impaired immune system function.