According to Hans Selye, how is stress best defined in the context of psychology?

• A. As the non-specific response of the body to any demand placed upon it
• B. As a learned behavior resulting from repeated exposure to trauma
• C. As a specific emotional reaction to negative life events
• D. As a conscious decision to avoid challenging situations

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that Hans Selye is a foundational figure in the study of stress within psychology, known for his General Adaptation Syndrome model.
2. Recognize that Selye's definition of stress focuses on the body's physiological reaction rather than specific emotions or behaviors.
3. Recall that Selye described stress as a 'non-specific response,' meaning the body reacts similarly to various demands or stressors, regardless of their nature.
4. Compare the options given: the correct definition aligns with the idea of a general bodily response to any demand, not limited to learned behaviors, specific emotions, or conscious decisions.
5. Conclude that the best definition according to Hans Selye is 'the non-specific response of the body to any demand placed upon it,' emphasizing the universal and automatic nature of the stress response.