Stress and the stability of social systems: a review of neurophysiological research

Current societies are characterised by unprecedented change in demographic, economic and political terms. These changes may be rather stressful, especially for those who have most to lose, that is members of (formerly) high-status groups. In this contribution, we review research on the influence of hierarchy stability on physiological stress, making a distinction between the cardiovascular correlates of negative stress (“threat”) and positive stress (“challenge”). Results from six studies reveal that when hierarchies are stable those low in rank show threat, while when hierarchies are unstable, those high in rank show threat and those low in rank show challenge. These effects occur independently of whether rank is based on power or status, or on interpersonal or inter-group comparisons. Results are discussed in terms of theories on power and identity, and implications for (interventions for) inter-group conflict and health.