In the context of AP Psychology and stress, what does the term 'tolerance' most accurately refer to?

• A. The ability to endure increasing levels of stress without experiencing negative psychological or physiological effects
• B. The process by which the body returns to homeostasis after a stressful event
• C. The immediate fight-or-flight response to a perceived threat
• D. The tendency to avoid stressful situations altogether

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the term 'tolerance' within the study of stress in psychology. It relates to how an individual responds to stress over time.
2. Step 2: Recognize that 'tolerance' in this context refers to the capacity to handle stress, specifically how much stress a person can endure before negative effects occur.
3. Step 3: Differentiate 'tolerance' from other stress-related concepts such as the 'fight-or-flight' response, which is an immediate reaction, and 'homeostasis,' which is the body's return to balance after stress.
4. Step 4: Note that 'tolerance' is not about avoiding stress but about enduring it, meaning it involves increasing levels of stress without harmful psychological or physiological consequences.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most accurate definition of 'tolerance' in this context is the ability to endure increasing levels of stress without experiencing negative psychological or physiological effects.