Which of the following statements is true regarding illness as a stressor? Illness is considered a behavioral stressor.

• A. False; illness is not considered a stressor at all.
• B. False; illness is typically considered a physical stressor rather than a behavioral stressor.
• C. True; illness is both a behavioral and a physical stressor.
• D. True; illness is considered a behavioral stressor.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of stressors in psychology. Stressors are events or conditions that cause stress, and they can be categorized into different types such as physical, behavioral, psychological, or environmental stressors.
2. Step 2: Define what is meant by a physical stressor. Physical stressors are those that directly affect the body, such as illness, injury, or environmental factors like extreme temperatures.
3. Step 3: Define what is meant by a behavioral stressor. Behavioral stressors involve actions or behaviors that create stress, such as poor lifestyle choices, substance abuse, or risky behaviors.
4. Step 4: Analyze the nature of illness. Illness primarily affects the body’s physical state, causing physiological changes and challenges, which aligns it with physical stressors rather than behavioral ones.
5. Step 5: Conclude that illness is typically classified as a physical stressor because it directly impacts bodily functions, and it is not generally considered a behavioral stressor since it is not caused by behavior but by biological or medical conditions.