When evaluating the causality of an adverse event in the context of stress, which of the following should be a consideration?

• A. The temporal relationship between the stressor and the onset of the adverse event
• B. The physical distance between the individual and the source of stress
• C. The financial cost of the adverse event
• D. The popularity of the stressor in the general population

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that when evaluating causality in psychology, especially regarding stress and adverse events, the key is to establish a logical and evidence-based connection between the stressor and the event.
2. Identify the importance of the temporal relationship, which means examining the timing between when the stressor occurred and when the adverse event began. This helps determine if the stressor could realistically have caused the event.
3. Recognize that other factors like physical distance, financial cost, or popularity of the stressor are less relevant to causality because they do not directly establish a cause-effect link.
4. Focus on gathering data or evidence that shows the stressor preceded the adverse event and that the timing aligns with known psychological or physiological responses to stress.
5. Conclude that the temporal relationship is a fundamental consideration in causality assessment because without it, it is difficult to argue that the stressor caused the adverse event.