Conservation of Resources and Traumatic Stress

Abstract

Conservation of resources (COR) theory has been developed as a general stress theory that helps delineate both why certain circumstances are stressful and the process of people's reactions to stressful circumstances (Hobfoll, 1988, 1989; Hobfoll & Lilly, 1993). As a general theory of stress, it can help us understand both the similarities and differences inherent in traumatic stress as compared to major stressors, everyday stressors, and minor hassles. If the theory is truly helpful, it can further aid in informing interventions aimed at benefiting victims of traumatic stress. This chapter focuses on COR theory as it applies to traumatic stress and emphasizes how it helps us to understand stress reactions, recovery, and lifelong sequelae. Hopefully, it will also help the reader frame other chapters in this volume and provide a general guide for understanding the nature and treatment of traumatic stress.