Grit buffers against stress-induced physiological response

Grit is widely recognized for its role in individual success, potentially by mitigating the impact of stress. However, prior research has primarily demonstrated grit’s buffering effect using self-report measures. In this study, we examined whether grit moderates physiological stress responses, as measured by skin conductance response (SCR). Specifically, we hypothesized that exposure to a challenging situation would elicit heightened SCR and that this response would be attenuated in individuals with higher grit levels. A total of 128 undergraduates participated in a laboratory experiment in which their SCR was recorded before and during a frustrating task (i.e., mirror-tracing task). Results indicated that individuals with higher grit exhibited lower SCR arousal during the task compared to those with lower grit, suggesting that grit buffers against physiological stress responses. This effect remained significant even after controlling for conscientiousness and self-control, underscoring grit’s unique contribution. • Grit helps reduce stress, but prior studies mostly rely on self-report measures. • We examined grit’s buffering effect using skin conductance response (SCR). • Higher grit levels were linked to lower SCR arousal during a frustrating task. • Grit’s buffering effect remained significant after controlling for related constructs.