In the context of stress research, the occurrence of obesity is greatest in which of the following groups?

• A. Individuals with low levels of stress
• B. Individuals exposed only to acute, short-term stress
• C. Individuals who never experience stress
• D. Individuals experiencing chronic stress

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key terms: 'acute stress' refers to short-term stress that is temporary, while 'chronic stress' refers to long-term, persistent stress exposure.
2. Recognize that stress can influence physiological processes such as hormone regulation, including cortisol levels, which are linked to weight gain and obesity.
3. Review research findings that show chronic stress leads to prolonged elevation of stress hormones, which can increase appetite and fat storage, contributing to obesity.
4. Compare the groups: individuals with low stress or no stress typically do not experience these prolonged hormonal changes, and acute stress is short-lived, so its impact on obesity is less significant.
5. Conclude that individuals experiencing chronic stress are most likely to have the greatest occurrence of obesity due to the sustained physiological effects of long-term stress.