THE PSYCHOLOGICAL PORTRAIT OF THE INHABIT ANT OF CARACAS (VENEZUELA)

A survey was carried out in order to evaluate the emotional state of 1 ,803 citizens of Caracas (Venezuela). The instrument was a questionnai re specifically designed for the present research work, with questions that measure key symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger. A large number of Caracas districts were included in the sample, and also two social class levels (upper middle class, and lower middle class). Resu lts indicate that there is an acute level of stress in both socioecono mic levels, manifiested as: worry (53% in the lower middle class, 51% in the upper middle class); body pains (30%, 29%); irritability (30%, 29%); muscle tension (22%, 30%), pessimism (65%, 56%); sleep difficult ies(71%, 63%); fear (63%, 64%); crying (51%, 54%). Both socioeconomic groups prefer to ignore the problems and avoid actions to solve them ( 68%, 68%). Verbal behavior is centered on resignation, passivity, and helplessness. Paradoxically, both groups report feelings of happiness (88%, 89%), probably based on cognitive distortion. The authors point out to the lack of skills for confronting stress. As solution, a progr am of Stress Inoculation Training is suggested, to be applied to the m ajority of the population through information by the mass media: press , radio, and TV.