Threshold Collapse: A Model of Bounded Resilience Under Cumulative Stress

This preprint introduces the Threshold Collapse Model (TCM), a conceptual framework proposing that resilience follows a bounded, non-linear relationship with cumulative stress exposure. Contrary to the commonly cited heuristic that increasing stress strengthens adaptation, the model suggests the existence of a critical threshold (S*) beyond which additional stress leads to degradation of performance and integrity rather than improvement. The framework integrates constructs from cognitive load theory, identity integrity, and reward signal alignment to explain how sustained exposure in high-friction environments particularly those characterized by communication asymmetry and social polarization can produce functional collapse rather than resilience. The paper outlines operational criteria for identifying threshold transition, proposes intervention strategies based on exposure control and environmental alignment, and formulates testable predictions for future empirical validation. This work is presented as a theory-building contribution intended to support further interdisciplinary investigation across psychology, neuroscience, and clinical-epidemiological contexts.