Before running a marathon, David experiences a sudden surge of energy, heightened awareness and excitement, which he recognizes as a precursor of good performance on the ground. Identify the term in which David's feelings can be categorized:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Eustress
Option (1) Distress — Incorrect. Distress is the harmful side of stress, the one that causes the body’s wear and tear. David’s feelings help him; they do not harm him.
Option (2) Eustress — Correct. Eustress is the term used to describe the level of stress that is good for you, one of a person’s best assets for achieving peak performance and managing minor crises. David’s surge of energy and excitement before the marathon is the kind of stress that pushes him to perform well.
Option (3) Strain — Incorrect. The reaction to external stressors is called strain, such as the tightness in the muscles and breathing that people report under stress. The term does not tell good stress from bad, and David’s state is the useful kind.
Option (4) Frustration — Incorrect. Frustration results from the blocking of needs and motives by something or someone that stops us from reaching a goal. Nothing is blocking David; he is eager to run.
NCERT (2025-26): “Nature, Types and Sources of Stress … It is important to remember that not all stress is inherently bad or destructive. ‘Eustress’ is the term used to describe the level of stress that is good for you and is one of a person’s best assets for achieving peak performance and managing minor crisis. Eustress, however, has the potential of turning into ‘distress’. It is this latter manifestation of stress that causes our body’s wear and tear.…” “Psychological Stress … Frustration results from the blocking of needs and motives by something or someone that hinders us from achieving a desired goal. There could be a number of causes of frustration such as social discrimination, interpersonal hurt, low grades in school, etc.…” |