Which of the following best explains why there is a growing trend of obesity in children aged 2-19 from the perspective of stress psychology?

• A. Stress causes children to become more physically active, which increases their risk of obesity.
• B. Chronic stress can lead to increased cortisol levels, which may promote overeating and fat accumulation.
• C. Obesity in children is primarily caused by genetic mutations that are unrelated to stress.
• D. Children aged 2-19 have a naturally slower metabolism, making them more prone to obesity regardless of stress.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of stress in the body, particularly how chronic stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to the release of cortisol, a stress hormone.
2. Step 2: Recognize that elevated cortisol levels over time can influence appetite regulation, often increasing cravings for high-calorie, sugary, and fatty foods.
3. Step 3: Connect the physiological effects of cortisol with behavioral outcomes, such as overeating and reduced motivation for physical activity, which contribute to weight gain.
4. Step 4: Consider how chronic stress-induced changes in metabolism and fat storage mechanisms promote fat accumulation, especially in the abdominal area.
5. Step 5: Conclude that from a stress psychology perspective, the growing trend of obesity in children can be explained by chronic stress leading to increased cortisol, which in turn promotes overeating and fat accumulation.