Cognitive Performance and Stress Appraisal: Psychology Report

This report investigates the relationship between stress appraisal and cognitive performance, focusing on a quasi-experimental design involving undergraduate students. The study received ethical approval and involved participants completing a word search puzzle after being assigned to either a challenge, threat, or control group. A manipulation check confirmed the effectiveness of the independent variable manipulation. Results from an ANOVA indicated significant differences in cognitive performance across the groups, with the control group scoring higher on the BDI compared to the threat and challenge groups. The findings support the notion that stress appraisals are linked to performance satisfaction. The report provides insights into the effects of different stress appraisals on cognitive function and how these appraisals may affect performance outcomes.