The concept of ‘weathering’ in psychology relates to:

The concept of ‘weathering’ in psychology refers to the cumulative health impacts experienced by individuals as a result of chronic stress and adversity over time. This idea is particularly relevant in understanding how prolonged exposure to stressors, especially systemic issues such as racism or poverty, can lead to a decline in physical and mental health.

Weathering suggests that over time, the body's ability to cope with stress diminishes, resulting in increased susceptibility to a range of health problems, including cardiovascular diseases and mental health disorders. This concept is crucial in developmental psychology as it highlights how external stress factors can influence individual health trajectories, particularly among marginalized groups.

By focusing on health impacts due to prolonged stress, one can better appreciate the long-term effects that social and environmental factors have on development and well-being. This understanding is vital for developing interventions and policies that address these stressors to improve health outcomes for affected populations.