Which of the following best explains why high levels of stress over long periods of time can reduce longevity and career satisfaction?

• A. Long-term stress only affects job performance but not overall health.
• B. Chronic stress can lead to physical health problems and emotional exhaustion, negatively impacting both lifespan and job fulfillment.
• C. High stress levels have no effect on physical or psychological well-being.
• D. Short-term stress always improves immune function and increases motivation.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of chronic stress, which refers to prolonged and persistent stress experienced over an extended period of time, as opposed to short-term or acute stress.
2. Step 2: Recognize that chronic stress activates the body's stress response system continuously, leading to physiological changes such as increased cortisol levels, which can impair immune function and increase vulnerability to illnesses.
3. Step 3: Identify how chronic stress contributes to emotional exhaustion, a state of feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed, which can reduce motivation and satisfaction in one's career.
4. Step 4: Connect the physiological effects (like health problems) and psychological effects (like emotional exhaustion) of chronic stress to explain why it can reduce both longevity and career satisfaction.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best explanation is that chronic stress negatively impacts both physical health and emotional well-being, thereby affecting lifespan and job fulfillment.