Which of the following is most likely to cause eustress instead of distress?

• A. Experiencing the loss of a close friend
• B. Facing unexpected financial difficulties
• C. Dealing with a serious illness
• D. Starting a new and exciting job that matches your skills

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of eustress and distress. Eustress is a positive form of stress that can motivate and enhance performance, while distress is negative stress that can cause anxiety and decrease performance.
2. Step 2: Analyze each option by considering whether the situation is likely to be perceived as a positive challenge (eustress) or a negative threat (distress).
3. Step 3: Recognize that experiencing the loss of a close friend, facing unexpected financial difficulties, and dealing with a serious illness are typically associated with negative emotions and harmful stress responses, thus more likely to cause distress.
4. Step 4: Identify that starting a new and exciting job that matches your skills is generally perceived as a positive challenge, which can lead to motivation and personal growth, characteristics of eustress.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the option involving a new and exciting job is most likely to cause eustress, as it aligns with the concept of positive stress that enhances well-being and performance.