Perceived stress and ambulatory blood pressure: an analysis of potential health behavior mechanisms

Ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) has been linked to perceived stress. However, research is needed on the more specific processes that might be responsible for such a link. In the present study, we examined how potential health behavior mechanisms (weekly exercise, weekly alcohol consumption, and smoking status) can contribute to such a link in 94 married couples who also completed perceived stress scale assessments of daily life and ambulatory blood pressure assessments. Results indicate, counter to our predictions, that these behavioral variables, combined or separately, are most likely not responsible for the link between ABP and perceived stress levels. These data offer clarification for traditional models of stress and health and suggests further areas of research endeavors.