Which characteristic is typical of distress?

• A. It always leads to improved performance and motivation.
• B. It is associated with negative emotions and can impair functioning.
• C. It is a form of positive stress that promotes growth.
• D. It occurs only in response to pleasant life events.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of distress in psychology. Distress refers to negative stress that can cause emotional discomfort and impair an individual's ability to function effectively.
2. Step 2: Differentiate distress from eustress. Eustress is positive stress that can enhance motivation and performance, while distress is associated with negative emotions and can hinder functioning.
3. Step 3: Recognize that distress is not always linked to improved performance or motivation; instead, it often leads to decreased effectiveness and well-being.
4. Step 4: Note that distress can arise from unpleasant or challenging life events, not from pleasant ones, which typically cause eustress.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the characteristic typical of distress is its association with negative emotions and impairment of functioning, distinguishing it from positive stress responses.