In the context of psychology, how can stress be considered beneficial to an individual?

• A. Stress can enhance motivation and improve performance in challenging situations.
• B. Stress eliminates the need for social support and connection.
• C. Stress always leads to negative health outcomes and should be avoided completely.
• D. Stress prevents the development of coping skills and resilience.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of stress in psychology: Stress is a response to demands or challenges, which can be either positive or negative depending on the context and individual perception.
2. Recognize that stress is not always harmful; it can act as a motivator that pushes individuals to perform better in challenging situations by increasing alertness and focus.
3. Identify the beneficial aspect of stress, often called 'eustress,' which enhances motivation and improves performance rather than causing harm.
4. Contrast this with the misconceptions: stress does not eliminate the need for social support, nor does it always lead to negative health outcomes; it can actually help develop coping skills and resilience when managed properly.
5. Conclude that the beneficial role of stress lies in its ability to prepare and energize individuals to meet challenges effectively, improving their performance and motivation.