Which of the following is a cognitive effect of stress?

The correct answer is Option (2) → Loss of the ability to make sound decisions

Option (1) Increased psychological tension — Incorrect. This is an emotional effect of stress. It sits with anxiety, depression and mood swings, so it concerns feelings.

Option (2) Loss of the ability to make sound decisions — Correct. Cognitive effects are changes in thinking, such as memory, attention and decision making. When stress goes on, the mind gets overloaded, and a person can quickly lose the ability to make sound decisions.

Option (3) Constriction of blood vessels — Incorrect. This is a physiological effect. Stress hormones such as adrenaline change the body, and narrowed blood vessels are one such body change.

Option (4) Mood swings and erratic behaviour — Incorrect. These are emotional effects of stress. They can push family and friends away, but they concern feelings and conduct.

Note: Stress has four major effects: emotional, physiological, cognitive and behavioural.