Class 12 Psychology: Stress: Meeting Life Challenges - Questions and Answers

Instructions: Please answer all questions to the best of your ability.

 

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) - 1 Mark Each

Choose the most appropriate answer from the given options.

 

The term 'eustress' refers to:

a) Negative and harmful stress

b) Positive and beneficial stress

c) Chronic stress

d) Acute stress

Answer: b) Positive and beneficial stress

 

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the Alarm Reaction stage in the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)?

a) Increased heart rate

b) Release of adrenaline

c) Body's resources are depleted

d) Fight-or-flight response

Answer: c) Body's resources are depleted

 

According to Lazarus and Folkman, the process of evaluating whether a situation is harmful, threatening, or challenging is called:

a) Secondary appraisal

b) Primary appraisal

c) Coping mechanism

d) Stress response

Answer: b) Primary appraisal

 

Which type of stressor involves minor, chronic annoyances of everyday life?

a) Traumatic events

b) Life events

c) Daily hassles

d) Environmental stressors

Answer: c) Daily hassles

 

When a person uses techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to manage their stress, they are primarily employing:

a) Problem-focused coping

b) Emotion-focused coping

c) Avoidance coping

d) Aggressive coping

Answer: b) Emotion-focused coping

 

An individual who believes that their efforts can significantly influence the outcomes in their life possesses a strong:

a) External locus of control

b) Internal locus of control

c) Learned helplessness

d) Type B personality

Answer: b) Internal locus of control

 

Which of the following is a cognitive symptom of stress?

a) Headaches

b) Increased sweating

c) Difficulty concentrating

d) Irritability

Answer: c) Difficulty concentrating

 

The "tend-and-befriend" response to stress is more commonly observed in:

a) Males

b) Females

c) Children

d) Elderly

Answer: b) Females

 

Which of the following coping strategies involves actively trying to change the stressful situation?

a) Seeking social support

b) Positive reappraisal

c) Planning and problem-solving

d) Self-blame

Answer: c) Planning and problem-solving

 

The state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress is known as:

a) Depression

b) Anxiety

c) Burnout

d) Phobia

Answer: c) Burnout

 

Which of these is a physiological response to stress?

a) Reduced heart rate

b) Decreased muscle tension

c) Increased blood pressure

d) Enhanced digestion

Answer: c) Increased blood pressure

 

According to research, individuals with a 'Type A' personality are more prone to:

a) Cardiovascular diseases

b) Depression

c) Anxiety disorders

d) Respiratory problems

Answer: a) Cardiovascular diseases

 

Learning to view stressful events as opportunities for growth is an example of:

a) Escape-avoidance

b) Positive reappraisal

c) Confrontive coping

d) Distancing

Answer: b) Positive reappraisal

 

The concept of 'resilience' in the context of stress refers to:

a) The inability to cope with stress

b) The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties

c) The tendency to avoid stressful situations

d) A form of chronic stress

Answer: b) The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties

 

Which of the following is a direct behavioral response to stress?

a) Worrying

b) Irritability

c) Increased alcohol consumption

d) Difficulty sleeping

Answer: c) Increased alcohol consumption

 

Short Answer Questions - 2 Marks Each

Answer the following questions briefly.

 

Define stress from a psychological perspective.

Answer: From a psychological perspective, stress is the pattern of cognitive, physiological, and behavioral reactions an individual displays in response to demands that tax or exceed their adaptive capabilities.

 

Briefly explain the concept of 'cognitive appraisal' in stress.

Answer: Cognitive appraisal refers to the mental process by which an individual evaluates a situation or event in terms of its potential to cause harm, threat, or challenge (primary appraisal) and assesses their resources and options for coping (secondary appraisal).

 

Name two psychological effects of prolonged stress.

Answer: Two psychological effects of prolonged stress are anxiety, depression, irritability, reduced concentration, and impaired memory. (Any two are acceptable).

 

Differentiate between 'eustress' and 'distress' with an example for each.

Answer: Eustress is positive, healthy, and motivating stress (e.g., excitement before a performance). Distress is negative, harmful, and debilitating stress (e.g., chronic anxiety due to financial problems).

 

What is 'burnout' and what are its key characteristics?

Answer: Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress. Its key characteristics include emotional exhaustion, depersonalization (cynicism or detachment), and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.

 

Provide two examples of how social support can act as a buffer against stress.

Answer: Social support can buffer stress by providing emotional comfort and reassurance, offering tangible aid or resources, and giving a sense of belonging and validation, which reduces feelings of isolation.

 

Explain the role of 'personal control' in stress management.

Answer: Personal control refers to an individual's belief in their ability to influence events and outcomes in their life. High personal control helps in stress management as it leads to greater perceived control, reducing feelings of helplessness and promoting proactive coping strategies.

 

 

Mention two lifestyle changes that can help reduce stress.

Answer: Two lifestyle changes that can help reduce stress are: regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, practicing mindfulness/meditation, and engaging in hobbies. (Any two are acceptable).

 

What is the 'fight-or-flight' response?

Answer: The 'fight-or-flight' response is an immediate physiological reaction to perceived danger, preparing the body to either confront the threat or flee from it. It involves activation of the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension.

 

 

Give two examples of environmental stressors.

Answer: Two examples of environmental stressors are noise pollution, overcrowding, air pollution, extreme temperatures, and natural disasters. (Any two are acceptable).

 

Long Answer Questions - 5 Marks Each

Answer the following questions in detail.

 

Define stress and elaborate on its nature by discussing the cognitive and physiological components of the stress response. How do individual differences influence the experience of stress?

Answer:

Stress is a dynamic state in which an individual is confronted with an opportunity, demand, or resource related to what the individual desires, and for which the outcome is perceived to be both uncertain and important. More broadly, it is the pattern of cognitive, physiological, and behavioral reactions an individual displays in response to demands that tax or exceed their adaptive capabilities.

 

The nature of the stress response involves both cognitive and physiological components:

 

Cognitive Components (Appraisal): This is the psychological interpretation of the stressful situation.

 

Primary Appraisal: The initial evaluation of a situation to determine if it is relevant and potentially threatening, harmful, or challenging. For example, a student might appraise an upcoming exam as a 'challenge' (potentially leading to growth) or a 'threat' (potentially leading to failure).

 

Secondary Appraisal: If a situation is appraised as threatening or challenging, the individual then evaluates their resources and options for coping. This involves assessing one's ability to cope with the demands of the situation (e.g., "Do I have enough time to study?", "Do I know enough to pass?"). This appraisal directly influences the intensity of the stress response.

 

Physiological Components: These are the bodily changes that occur as the sympathetic nervous system and endocrine system respond to perceived threats.

 

Alarm Reaction: The initial response, involving the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. The hypothalamus activates the adrenal glands to release adrenaline and noradrenaline, leading to increased heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and muscle tension, preparing the body for "fight or flight."

 

 

Resistance Stage: If the stressor persists, the body tries to adapt and cope. The parasympathetic nervous system attempts to calm the body, but energy resources remain mobilized. Hormones like cortisol are released, maintaining heightened arousal but also suppressing non-essential functions.

 

Exhaustion Stage: If the stressor continues for too long, the body's resources become depleted. The immune system is weakened, leading to increased susceptibility to illness, and physical and psychological damage can occur, including burnout, anxiety, and depression.

 

 

Individual differences influence the experience of stress significantly:

 

Personality Traits: Type A personality (competitive, impatient, hostile) is more prone to cardiovascular issues under stress than Type B (relaxed, easygoing). Optimists tend to appraise situations more positively and cope better.

 

 

Locus of Control: Individuals with an internal locus of control (believe they control their destiny) feel less stressed by uncontrollable events than those with an external locus of control.

 

Coping Styles: Some individuals naturally lean towards problem-focused coping, while others use emotion-focused. This preference can influence how effectively they manage different types of stressors.

 

Perceived Control: The subjective belief in one's ability to influence events significantly reduces stress levels, even if actual control is limited.

 

Social Support: The availability and quality of social support networks can buffer the impact of stress, providing emotional comfort and practical help.

 

Past Experiences: Previous experiences with stress and success/failure in coping can shape an individual's appraisal and response to future stressors.

 

Discuss various types of stressors that individuals commonly encounter in their daily lives. Provide concrete examples for each type. How does the cumulative effect of these stressors impact an individual's well-being?

Answer:

Stressors are events or situations that trigger a stress response. They can vary widely in their nature and impact. Here are various types of stressors commonly encountered:

 

Life Events: These are significant, discrete occurrences that demand considerable psychological and physical adjustment. They can be positive or negative.

 

Examples: Death of a family member, divorce, marriage, job loss, starting a new job, moving to a new city, serious illness, graduation.

 

Daily Hassles: These are minor, chronic, and recurring irritations or annoyances of everyday life that can accumulate over time and exert a significant impact on well-being.

 

Examples: Getting stuck in traffic, losing keys, arguments with family members, technology glitches, long queues, academic pressure from deadlines, minor financial worries.

 

Environmental Stressors: These are aspects of the physical environment that can be a source of stress.

 

Examples: Noise pollution, overcrowding, air pollution, extreme temperatures (heatwaves, cold snaps), natural disasters (earthquakes, floods), living in a crime-ridden area.

 

Occupational/Academic Stressors: These relate to demands and pressures specifically arising from one's work or educational setting.

 

Examples: Heavy workload, tight deadlines, job insecurity, conflict with colleagues/supervisors, insufficient resources, performance pressure, fear of failure in exams, balancing multiple academic subjects.

 

Social Stressors: These involve challenges or difficulties arising from interpersonal relationships and social interactions.

 

Examples: Relationship conflicts (with friends, family, partners), loneliness, social isolation, peer pressure, discrimination, bullying, public speaking anxiety.

 

Psychological/Internal Stressors: These are internal factors, including our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes that can generate stress.

 

Examples: Negative self-talk, perfectionism, unrealistic expectations, anxiety about the future, low self-esteem, chronic worrying, rumination over past events.

 

The cumulative effect of these stressors on an individual's well-being:

While a single major life event or even an acute daily hassle can cause stress, the cumulative effect of multiple stressors, especially chronic ones, can be far more damaging.

 

Increased Allostatic Load: The body's "wear and tear" from chronic efforts to adapt to stress. Over time, constant physiological arousal (increased cortisol, adrenaline) can lead to health problems.

 

 

Physical Health: Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses (e.g., colds, flu). It is also linked to cardiovascular problems (hypertension, heart disease), digestive issues (IBS), headaches, and muscle pain.

 

 

Mental Health: Prolonged exposure to stressors can lead to anxiety disorders, depression, panic attacks, irritability, anger, and difficulty concentrating. It can impair decision-making and cognitive function.

 

Behavioral Impact: Individuals under cumulative stress may resort to maladaptive coping behaviors such as increased alcohol or drug use, overeating, social withdrawal, sleep disturbances, or aggression.

 

Emotional Exhaustion: The constant demand on emotional resources can lead to burnout, characterized by a feeling of being drained and having no energy for anything.

 

Reduced Quality of Life: The constant burden of multiple stressors can significantly diminish an individual's overall sense of well-being, happiness, and life satisfaction, impacting their relationships and ability to engage in enjoyable activities.

 

Elaborate on various coping strategies that individuals can employ to effectively manage stress. Give specific examples for each type of strategy and explain when each type might be most appropriate.

Answer:

Coping strategies are conscious and unconscious efforts to manage, reduce, or tolerate stress. They are broadly categorized into problem-focused and emotion-focused coping.

 

 

Problem-Focused Coping Strategies: These strategies aim to directly address and alter the source of stress. They are most appropriate when the stressor is controllable and an individual believes they can make a difference.

 

Planning and Problem-Solving: Systematically identifying the problem, brainstorming solutions, evaluating their pros and cons, and then implementing the most effective one.

 

Example: If you are stressed about an upcoming exam, you might create a detailed study schedule, break down topics into smaller chunks, and allocate specific times for each.

 

Appropriateness: Highly effective for academic pressures, work-related challenges, or interpersonal conflicts that can be resolved through direct action.

 

Information Seeking: Actively gathering more information about the stressor to better understand it and potential solutions.

 

Example: If diagnosed with a new medical condition, researching treatment options, side effects, and support groups.

 

Appropriateness: Useful when facing unfamiliar or complex stressors where knowledge can empower better decision-making.

 

Confrontive Coping/Assertiveness: Directly approaching the source of stress or confronting the person causing it, while maintaining respect.

 

Example: If a colleague is not pulling their weight on a project, having a direct but polite conversation about workload distribution.

 

Appropriateness: When boundaries need to be set or grievances aired in a constructive manner, and there is a possibility for resolution.

 

Emotion-Focused Coping Strategies: These strategies aim to manage the emotional responses to stress, rather than changing the stressor itself. They are most appropriate when the stressor is uncontrollable, chronic, or when problem-focused coping is not immediately feasible.

 

Seeking Social Support: Reaching out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional comfort, advice, or practical help.

 

Example: Talking to a trusted friend about feelings of sadness after a breakup.

 

Appropriateness: Effective for personal crises, grief, or any situation where emotional validation and connection are needed.

 

Positive Reappraisal: Changing one's cognitive interpretation of the stressful situation to find a more positive or growth-oriented meaning.

 

Example: Viewing a job loss not as a failure, but as an opportunity to explore a new career path or develop new skills.

 

Appropriateness: Useful when a situation cannot be changed, and finding a positive perspective can reduce emotional distress.

 

Distancing/Avoidance (Selective): Temporarily disengaging from the stressor to gain perspective or allow time for emotional processing. This should not be chronic avoidance.

 

Example: Taking a short break from studying for an overwhelming exam to watch a lighthearted movie.

 

Appropriateness: For temporary relief from overwhelming emotions, allowing for a mental reset before returning to the problem.

 

Self-Control/Regulation: Managing one's own emotional reactions, such as trying to remain calm or suppressing unhelpful thoughts.

 

Example: Deliberately taking deep breaths and counting to ten when feeling angry in a frustrating situation.

 

Appropriateness: For managing intense immediate emotional responses that could otherwise lead to impulsive or destructive actions.

 

Acceptance: Acknowledging the reality of a stressful situation that cannot be changed, and accepting the associated emotions.

 

Example: Accepting the natural process of aging or the loss of a loved one.

 

Appropriateness: Essential for uncontrollable stressors like chronic illness, natural disasters, or irreversible life events.

 

Relaxation Techniques: Practicing methods to reduce physiological arousal.

 

Example: Engaging in meditation, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga.

 

Appropriateness: Universally beneficial for reducing the physical symptoms of stress and promoting overall well-being.

 

Physical Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity to release endorphins and reduce stress hormones.

 

Example: Going for a run, swimming, or playing a sport.

 

Appropriateness: A highly effective and healthy way to manage both the physiological and psychological impacts of stress.

 

Effective stress management often involves a flexible approach, utilizing a combination of both problem-focused and emotion-focused strategies depending on the controllability and nature of the stressor.