Which of the following best defines stress as it is introduced in psychology courses such as AP Psychology Unit 9?

• A. A mental disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest
• B. A physical and psychological response to events that are perceived as challenging or threatening
• C. A learned behavior resulting from repeated exposure to rewards
• D. A state of complete relaxation and absence of any external demands

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the question, which is about the psychological definition of stress as introduced in AP Psychology Unit 9.
2. Step 2: Recall that in psychology, stress is typically defined as a response involving both the mind and body when an individual perceives a situation as challenging or threatening.
3. Step 3: Evaluate each option by comparing it to the psychological definition of stress: the first option describes depression, the third option describes learned behavior, and the fourth option describes relaxation, none of which match stress.
4. Step 4: Identify that the second option correctly describes stress as a physical and psychological response to perceived challenges or threats.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best definition of stress in this context is the second option, emphasizing both physical and psychological components in response to stressors.