A student made the table below of changes seen in people under stress…

A student made the table below of changes seen in people under stress. Which row puts the change under the wrong effect of stress?

Row	Change seen in a stressed person	Effect of stress
1	Release of epinephrine and nor-epinephrine	Physiological
2	Reduced short-term memory capacity	Cognitive
3	Mood swings	Emotional
4	Slowing down of the digestive system	Cognitive

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 4

The correct answer is Option (4) → Row 4

Option (1) Row 1 — Incorrect. Under stress the body makes more hormones. The release of epinephrine and nor-epinephrine is a physiological effect, so this row is placed correctly.

Option (2) Row 2 — Incorrect. Cognitive effects are changes in thinking. Poor concentration and reduced short-term memory capacity are cognitive effects, so this row is right.

Option (3) Row 3 — Incorrect. Emotional effects show in feelings. Stressed people are more likely to have mood swings, along with anxiety and depression, so this row is right.

Option (4) Row 4 — Correct. Slowing down of the digestive system is a bodily change, so it is a physiological effect. Cognitive effects concern thinking, such as poor concentration, so this row is placed wrongly.

NCERT (2026-27): “EFFECTS OF STRESS ON PSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTIONING AND HEALTH …
Physiological Effects : When the human body is placed under physical or psychological stress, it increases the production of certain hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones produce marked changes in heart rate, blood pressure levels, metabolism and physical activity. Although, this physical reaction will help us to function more effectively when we are under pressure for short periods of time, it can be extremely damaging to the body in the long-term effects. Examples of physiological effects are release of epinephrine and nor - epinephrine, slowing down of the digestive system, expansion of air passages in the lungs, increased heart rate, and constriction of blood vessels.”

“Cognitive Effects : If pressures due to stress continue, one may suffer from mental overload. This suffering from high level of stress can rapidly cause individuals to lose their ability to make sound decisions. Faulty decisions made at home, in career, or at workplace may lead to arguments, failure, financial loss or even loss of job. Cognitive effects of stress are poor concentration, and reduced short-term memory capacity.”