Distress is defined as which of the following?

Distress is defined as which of the following?

• A. Negative Mental + Physical Reaction to an Event That Enhances Ability to Cope or Function
• B. Positive Mental + Physical Reaction to an Event That Enhances Coping
• C. A Neutral Response With No Impact on Functioning
• D. A Long-Term Adaptation to Frequent Stress

Answer: (A)

Distress is a negative mental and physical reaction to a stressor that impairs your ability to cope or function. When a stressor triggers distress, worry, tension, and physiological arousal tend to disrupt performance and well-being, making it harder to handle the situation. This is different from positive stress, or eustress, which would enhance coping and performance. A neutral response would have no impact on functioning, and long-term adaptation refers to ongoing changes from repeated stress, not the immediate negative reaction in distress. The key idea is that distress reduces one's capacity to cope and function in the moment.

Distress is a negative mental and physical reaction to a stressor that impairs your ability to cope or function. When a stressor triggers distress, worry, tension, and physiological arousal tend to disrupt performance and well-being, making it harder to handle the situation. This is different from positive stress, or eustress, which would enhance coping and performance. A neutral response would have no impact on functioning, and long-term adaptation refers to ongoing changes from repeated stress, not the immediate negative reaction in distress. The key idea is that distress reduces one's capacity to cope and function in the moment.