Which of the following activities demonstrates the lowest level of stress intensity?

• A. Participating in a competitive sports event
• B. Reading a book in a quiet room
• C. Taking an important exam
• D. Giving a public speech

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of stress intensity, which refers to how strongly a situation or activity triggers a stress response in an individual. Higher stress intensity usually involves situations perceived as threatening, challenging, or requiring high performance under pressure.
2. Step 2: Analyze each activity in terms of typical stress intensity: Participating in a competitive sports event often involves physical exertion and performance pressure, which can increase stress levels.
3. Step 3: Taking an important exam is generally associated with cognitive pressure and fear of failure, which can also elevate stress intensity significantly.
4. Step 4: Giving a public speech is commonly linked to social evaluation anxiety, making it a high-stress activity for many people due to fear of judgment or embarrassment.
5. Step 5: Reading a book in a quiet room is usually a relaxing activity that does not involve performance pressure or social evaluation, thus demonstrating the lowest level of stress intensity among the options.