Mental health, temperament, the cultural context and resources such as coping style and support networks all affect a person's experience of stress. Which of the following do these factors together determine?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → The appraisal of a given stressful situation
Option (1) The intensity and duration of the stressor — Incorrect. Intensity (low or high) and duration (short-term or long-term) are dimensions on which the stressful event itself varies. They describe the stressor, so a person's culture or resources do not decide them.
Option (2) The physical strength and constitution of the person — Incorrect. Physical strength and constitution is a separate factor in the experience of stress. People with poor health and a weak constitution are more vulnerable, so it works beside these factors and is not their result.
Option (3) The appraisal of a given stressful situation — Correct. Psychological characteristics, culture and personal resources together shape how a person appraises a stressful situation, that is, whether it is seen as a threat, a harm or a challenge. So the same event can be appraised very differently by two people.
Option (4) The release of catecholamines into the blood stream — Incorrect. The adrenal gland releases catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine) as a physiological stress reaction along the autonomic pathway. It follows arousal in the body and is not what culture or resources determine.
NCERT (2026-27): “Nature of Stress … |