Stress and adaptation are the basis of Roy’s Adaptation Model and Neuman’s System Model. Roy and Andrews stated that the goal of nursing is the promotion of adaptive responses through the mode of coping. Neuman’s theory deals with a person’s responses to stress. This application of stress to nursing is important the meaning of the stressor to the individual and the resources and support that the person has in coping. Indeed, they provide a framework for nurses to assess the effects of stress, both physical and psychological, on the individual and the coping processes that the individual uses. When assessing a client’s stressors, it is important for the nurse to also consider the meaning of the stressor to the individual and the resources support that the person has in coping with the stressor. The nurse can help with problem-solving or cognitive restructuring to facilitate effective coping and adaptation. This can also lead to the development of new coping strategies for the individual (McEwen & Wills, 2007).
Lazarus’ theory deals with how a person copes with stressful situations. Whereas Selye’s focus is on the body’s pshsiologic responses, Lazarus focused on the person’s psychological responses. He viewed these responses as a process and stated that a process-oriented approach is directed toward what an individual actually thinks and does within the context of a specific encounter.
Dr. Neuman saw the nurse-patient relationship as a system which should be kept in a steady state, or balance. However, Neuman recognized that various influences, called "stressors," disrupted the relationship between the nurse and the patient. Neuman argues that there are many known, unknown, and universal stressors. However, the major known stressors are loss, pain, sensory deprivation, or cultural change. Neuman, in her model, refers to the patient as a "client" or "client system." Each client system is a unique composite of common known factors or innate characteristics that respond within an established range to a basic structure. According to Neuman, stressor prevention through intervention is a key to client wellness. Interventions should begin as soon as a risk factor or stressor is suspected or identified, before a negative client response occurs (Roskoski, 2012).

Roskoski, J. (2012). What is the Neuman Nursing Theory?. Retrieved: May 23, 2012. http://www.ehow.com/facts_6743961_neuman-nursing-theory_.html