Which of the following best describes how low self-esteem might impact academic behavior according to research on stress and immune function?

• A. Low self-esteem can increase stress levels, which may lead to behaviors such as cutting class and getting bad grades.
• B. Low self-esteem typically results in improved academic performance due to increased motivation.
• C. Low self-esteem has no relationship to stress or academic outcomes.
• D. Low self-esteem only affects physical health and does not influence academic behavior.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the relationship between self-esteem and stress. Research shows that low self-esteem is often linked to higher stress levels because individuals may feel less confident and more vulnerable to challenges.
2. Step 2: Recognize how increased stress can affect behavior. Elevated stress can lead to negative coping mechanisms, such as avoiding responsibilities or engaging in behaviors like cutting class.
3. Step 3: Connect stress and academic outcomes. High stress and poor coping can result in decreased academic performance, such as getting bad grades, due to reduced focus, motivation, or attendance.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the incorrect options by comparing them to established research findings. For example, low self-esteem does not typically improve academic performance, nor is it unrelated to stress or academic outcomes.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description is that low self-esteem increases stress, which in turn can lead to negative academic behaviors and outcomes.