What is the central idea of the interactional definition of stress proposed by Lazarus and Folkman?

The central idea of the interactional definition of stress proposed by Lazarus and Folkman is that stress is a two-way process: it involves the production of stressors by the environment, and the response of an individual subjected to these stressors.

According to Lazarus and Folkman, stress is a particular relationship between the person and the environment that is appraised by the person as taxing or exceeding his or her resources and endangering his or her well-being.

In other words, stress is not just a stimulus or a response. It is a process by which we perceive and cope with environmental threats and challenges. The effectiveness of our coping efforts can also influence how much stress we experience.

So, the central idea is that stress involves a process of "transaction" between individuals and their environment, where both the external context and the individual's internal resources and perceptions play a crucial role.