Which of the following is true of stress?

• A. Stress is always harmful to physical health.
• B. Stress is unrelated to psychological functioning.
• C. Stress only occurs in response to negative events.
• D. Stress can be both positive and negative depending on the situation.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of stress in psychology: Stress is a response to demands or challenges, which can be physical, emotional, or psychological.
2. Recognize that stress is not always harmful; it can be positive (eustress) or negative (distress) depending on the context and individual perception.
3. Evaluate the incorrect options: Stress is not always harmful, it is related to psychological functioning, and it can occur in response to both positive and negative events.
4. Recall that positive stress (eustress) can motivate and improve performance, while negative stress (distress) can impair health and functioning.
5. Conclude that the statement 'Stress can be both positive and negative depending on the situation' accurately reflects the nature of stress.