Which of the following statements about stress is most accurate?

• A. People may experience and respond to stress differently based on individual factors.
• B. Everyone reacts to stress in the same way.
• C. Stress is only caused by negative life events.
• D. Stress always leads to negative health outcomes for all individuals.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of stress in psychology. Stress is a psychological and physiological response to perceived challenges or threats, which can vary widely among individuals.
2. Step 2: Analyze each statement by considering psychological research on stress. For example, recognize that stress responses are influenced by individual differences such as personality, coping mechanisms, and past experiences.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the statement 'Everyone reacts to stress in the same way.' This is generally inaccurate because people have diverse reactions to stress based on various factors.
4. Step 4: Consider the statement 'Stress is only caused by negative life events.' This is incorrect because stress can also arise from positive events or changes, such as starting a new job or getting married.
5. Step 5: Reflect on the statement 'Stress always leads to negative health outcomes for all individuals.' This is not accurate since some stress can be beneficial (eustress), and health outcomes depend on how stress is managed.