Which of the following stressors is an example of a cataclysmic event?

• A. Having a disagreement with a coworker
• B. A major earthquake affecting an entire city
• C. Experiencing a breakup in a romantic relationship
• D. Daily traffic congestion on the way to work

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a cataclysmic event in psychology: it is a sudden, large-scale event that causes significant stress to many people simultaneously, such as natural disasters or major accidents.
2. Review each option and determine whether it fits the criteria of a cataclysmic event by considering the scale and suddenness of the stressor.
3. Evaluate 'Having a disagreement with a coworker' — this is a personal, interpersonal stressor and does not affect a large group suddenly, so it is not a cataclysmic event.
4. Evaluate 'A major earthquake affecting an entire city' — this is a sudden, large-scale event impacting many people at once, fitting the definition of a cataclysmic event.
5. Evaluate 'Experiencing a breakup in a romantic relationship' and 'Daily traffic congestion on the way to work' — both are personal or chronic stressors, not sudden large-scale events, so they are not cataclysmic events.