Which term describes the negative physical, mental, or emotional strain in response to a stressor?

Which term describes the negative physical, mental, or emotional strain in response to a stressor?

• A. Stress
• B. Eustress
• C. Distress
• D. Coping Strategies

Answer: (C)

Distress describes the negative physical, mental, or emotional strain that occurs in response to a stressor. It happens when the demands of a situation overwhelm a person’s coping resources, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, or headaches. This is different from eustress, which is positive stress that can motivate and enhance performance. Stress is the broader term for the body's response to any demand, while coping strategies are the ways people manage stress. Because the scenario emphasizes a harmful, overwhelming reaction, this term best fits the description.

Distress describes the negative physical, mental, or emotional strain that occurs in response to a stressor. It happens when the demands of a situation overwhelm a person’s coping resources, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, or headaches. This is different from eustress, which is positive stress that can motivate and enhance performance. Stress is the broader term for the body's response to any demand, while coping strategies are the ways people manage stress. Because the scenario emphasizes a harmful, overwhelming reaction, this term best fits the description.