Worksheet Solutions: Meeting Life Challenges | Psychology Class 12 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

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Q1: The term "stress" originated from the Latin word _________ which means tight or narrow.
Ans: strictus
Stress often leads to a feeling of tightness and constriction in muscles.

Q2: Stress can cause and be a result of various factors, leading to a reaction called  _________.
Ans: strain
Strain is the physiological or psychological response to stress-inducing factors.

Q3:  _________ stress occurs due to overexertion, inadequate sleep, and an unbalanced diet.
Ans: Physical and Environmental
It pertains to stress caused by physical factors and the surrounding environment.

Q4: _________ stress is subjective and generated by our minds, arising from frustration and conflicts.
Ans: Psychological
Psychological stress originates from mental and emotional factors.

Q5: The main stages of General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) are Alarm Reaction, _________  and Exhaustion.
Ans: Resistance
The body attempts to resist the stressor and adapt during the resistance stage.

Q6:  _________ techniques, like deep breathing and meditation, help calm the mind and relax the body.
Ans: Relaxation
Relaxation techniques are practiced to reduce stress and induce a state of calm.

Q7: Assertiveness enables confident expression of opinions, enhancing  _________ skills.
Ans: communication
Assertiveness promotes effective and clear communication.

Q8: Positive health refers to a state of complete physical, mental, emotional,  _________ and spiritual well-being.
Ans: social
Social well-being indicates healthy interactions and relationships with others.

Q9: The immune system safeguards the body against internal and external threats and is adversely affected by high levels of _________.
Ans: stress
Stress weakens the immune system, making the body susceptible to illnesses.

Q10: Stress is a major contributing factor to health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and  _________.
Ans: rapid heart rate
Stress can lead to physiological changes, including an increase in heart rate.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: Coping refers to a person's specific response to a situation.
Reason: Coping strategies are fixed and universal for all individuals.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (c)
Coping refers to a person's specific and dynamic response to a situation. It is not fixed or universal; individuals may employ different coping strategies based on their personality, experiences, and the nature of the situation. There is no single fixed coping strategy that applies to everyone universally.

Q2: Assertion: Positive health is merely the absence of disease.
Reason: Positive health includes physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
Positive health indeed goes beyond the absence of disease. It encompasses a state of complete physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. The reason provided correctly explains that positive health includes various aspects beyond just the absence of illnesses or diseases.

Q3: Assertion: Social stress arises from internal conflicts.
Reason: Social stress is subjective and related to interpersonal relationships.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (b)
Social stress does arise from interpersonal relationships, and it is subjective in nature. However, it is not necessarily always rooted in internal conflicts. Social stress can be caused by a variety of factors such as social pressure, conflicts with others, or challenging social situations. The reason does not accurately explain the cause of social stress mentioned in the assertion.

Q4: Assertion: Exercise strengthens the immune system and helps control body fat.
Reason: Exercise has no impact on the body's overall health.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (d)
The assertion is false. Regular exercise indeed strengthens the immune system, helps control body fat, improves cardiovascular health, and has numerous other health benefits. The reason provided contradicts the well-established positive impact of exercise on overall health, making the assertion incorrect.

Q5: Assertion: GAS model has two stages: Alarm Reaction and Exhaustion.
Reason: Resistance stage in GAS involves conserving body resources and coping with the stressor.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The assertion and the reason are both true. The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model does have three stages: Alarm Reaction, Resistance, and Exhaustion. The resistance stage involves conserving body resources to cope with the stressor. The reason correctly explains the process in the assertion, making it the correct option.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Define stress according to Hans Selye.
Ans: Stress is the non-specific response of the body to any demand.

Q2: What are the two types of stress?
Ans: Eustress and Distress.

Q3: Name one physiological effect of excessive stress.
Ans: Increase in heart rate.

Q4: What does GAS stand for?
Ans: General Adaptation Syndrome.

Q5: What are the three stages of GAS?
Ans: Alarm Reaction, Resistance, and Exhaustion.

Q6: How does psychological stress differ from social stress?
Ans: Psychological stress is generated by the mind and is subjective, while social stress arises from interpersonal relationships.

Q7: Mention one coping strategy proposed by Endler and Parker.
Ans: Task-oriented strategy.

Q8: What does psychoneuroimmunology study?
Ans: The link between the mind, brain, and immune system and how stress affects the immune system's functioning.

Q9: Name one lifestyle change to reduce stress.
Ans: Regular exercise.

Q10: What is the main aim of cognitive-behavioral techniques in stress management?
Ans: To help people become resistant to stress by assessing the problem, reducing stress, and applying the solution through self-instructions.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the difference between eustress and distress.
Ans: Eustress is beneficial stress that helps individuals stay motivated and achieve optimal performance. It is instrumental in essential tasks. Distress, on the other hand, is detrimental stress that hinders an individual's ability to cope, leading to emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion.

Q2: Describe the stages of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model.
Ans:

• Alarm Reaction Stage: The presence of a stressor triggers the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, preparing the body for a fight or flight response.
• Resistance Stage: With prolonged stress, the parasympathetic nervous system conserves body resources, enabling coping with the stressor.
• Exhaustion Stage: Excessive exposure to prolonged stress leads to exhaustion, depleting the body's resources to deal with the stressful situation.

Q3: How does stress affect the immune system?
Ans: High levels of stress adversely affect the immune system, which safeguards the body against internal and external threats. Stress weakens the immune response, making the body more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.

Q4: Explain the impact of stress on psychological functioning.
Ans: Excessive stress can cause emotional instability, mood swings, reduced self-confidence, and self-esteem. It can also lead to mental overload, hindering cognitive abilities such as memory, decision-making, and concentration.

Q5: What are some lifestyle changes to reduce stress?
Ans: Lifestyle changes to reduce stress include practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation, engaging in regular exercise, fostering positive thinking, and maintaining a balanced diet. Social support and time management are also essential.

Q6: Discuss the concept of positive health.
Ans: Positive health refers to a state of complete physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. It goes beyond the absence of disease and includes factors like a balanced diet, positive attitude, regular exercise, and social support, contributing to overall well-being.

Q7: Explain the coping strategies proposed by Lazarus and Folkman.
Ans:

• Emotion-focused strategies: These involve psychological changes to control emotions and express them healthily, especially in situations beyond our control.
• Problem-focused strategies: These focus on reducing the threat posed by the situation, increasing knowledge, and self-awareness of the problem. They are effective when the situation is under our control.

Q8: How does stress impact behavior?
Ans: Stress can lead to reduced intake of nutritious food, disturbed sleep patterns, poor work performance, and increased consumption of alcohol and drugs. It can negatively affect an individual's behavior, leading to unhealthy habits and choices.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the Nature and Types of Stress.
Ans: Stress is a natural response of the body to any demand or threat. It is a feeling of emotional or physical tension that arises when we perceive a situation as challenging or overwhelming. Stress can be caused by various factors, including work pressures, relationship problems, financial difficulties, or traumatic experiences.

There are different types of stress that individuals may experience:

• Acute Stress: This is a short-term stress response that occurs in response to immediate threats or challenges. It is commonly experienced in situations like public speaking or taking an exam.
• Episodic Acute Stress: Some individuals experience this type of stress more frequently. It is characterized by a pattern of recurring acute stress responses. People who are constantly overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities or have a tendency to worry excessively often experience episodic acute stress.
• Chronic Stress: This is long-term stress that persists over an extended period. It can result from ongoing problems such as chronic illness, job dissatisfaction, or difficult relationships. Chronic stress can significantly impact a person's overall well-being and health.
• Traumatic Stress: This type of stress occurs as a response to a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, physical assault, or the death of a loved one. Traumatic stress can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if not properly addressed.

It is important to note that stress can affect individuals differently, and what may be stressful for one person may not be for another. Additionally, stress can manifest both physically and psychologically, influencing various aspects of a person's life.

Q2: Discuss the Effects of Stress on Psychological Functioning and Health.
Ans: Stress can have significant effects on both psychological functioning and physical health. Here are some of the common effects of stress:

Psychological Effects:

• Anxiety and irritability: Stress can lead to feelings of restlessness, unease, and irritability. It can also contribute to the development or exacerbation of anxiety disorders.
• Depression: Prolonged or chronic stress can increase the risk of developing depression. Stressful life events can trigger depressive episodes in vulnerable individuals.
• Cognitive difficulties: Stress can affect concentration, memory, and decision-making abilities. It may also lead to a decline in overall cognitive function.
• Sleep disturbances: Stress often disrupts sleep patterns, leading to difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep. This can further contribute to fatigue and decreased cognitive functioning.

Physical Effects:

• Cardiovascular problems: Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and heart attacks. Stress activates the body's "fight or flight" response, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure.
• Weakened immune system: Prolonged stress can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.
• Digestive issues: Stress can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to problems such as stomachaches, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Musculoskeletal problems: Stress can cause muscle tension, leading to headaches, backaches, and other musculoskeletal issues.
• Compromised mental health: Chronic stress is associated with an increased risk of developing mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders and substance abuse problems.

It is important to recognize the impact of stress on psychological functioning and health in order to develop effective stress management strategies and seek appropriate support when needed.

Q3: Explain the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model and its stages.
Ans: The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) model, proposed by Hans Selye, describes the body's response to stressors. The model consists of three stages:

• Alarm Stage: The alarm stage is the initial response to a stressor. When a stressor is perceived, the body activates the "fight or flight" response. This stage is characterized by increased adrenaline and cortisol release, leading to heightened awareness, increased heart rate, and rapid breathing. The body prepares for immediate action to deal with the stressor.
• Resistance Stage: If the stressor persists, the body enters the resistance stage. In this stage, the body tries to adapt and cope with the ongoing stressor. Hormone levels stabilize, and the body attempts to restore balance. However, physiological resources are continuously mobilized, which can lead to wear and tear on the body over time.
• Exhaustion Stage: If the stressor continues for an extended period without relief or if the body is unable to adapt, the exhaustion stage occurs. During this stage, the body's resources become depleted, leading to physical and psychological exhaustion. The individual may experience increased vulnerability to illness, chronic fatigue, and decreased overall functioning.

It is important to note that the GAS model provides a general understanding of the body's response to stress, but individual experiences may vary. Not all stressors follow a linear progression through these stages, and factors such as personal resilience and coping strategies can influence the response to stress.

Q4: Examine Stress Management Techniques.
Ans: Stress management techniques aim to reduce or cope with the negative effects of stress on psychological and physical well-being. Here are some commonly used stress management techniques:

Relaxation Techniques:

• Deep breathing exercises: Practicing slow, deep breaths can help activate the body's relaxation response and reduce stress.
• Progressive muscle relaxation: This technique involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups to promote relaxation and release tension.
• Meditation and mindfulness: Engaging in meditation or mindfulness practices can help calm the mind, increase self-awareness, and reduce stress.

Physical Activity:

• Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as jogging, swimming, or yoga, can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters.
• Outdoor activities: Spending time in nature or engaging in outdoor activities can have a positive impact on mental health and help alleviate stress.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices:

• Adequate sleep: Getting enough quality sleep is essential for managing stress. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and creating a relaxing environment can promote better sleep.
• Balanced diet: Eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet can support overall well-being and provide the body with the energy it needs to cope with stress.
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol: Excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol can exacerbate stress and anxiety. It is important to moderate their intake.

Social Support:

• Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional support and help in managing stress effectively.
• Engaging in social activities and maintaining healthy relationships can also contribute to stress reduction.

Time Management and Prioritization:

• Learning effective time management skills can help reduce stress by prioritizing tasks, setting realistic goals, and avoiding procrastination.
• Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make them feel more achievable and reduce stress.

Seeking Professional Help:

• If stress becomes overwhelming or begins to significantly impact daily functioning, seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be beneficial. They can provide guidance, support, and specific techniques tailored to individual needs.

It is important to remember that different stress management techniques work for different individuals. Experimenting with various techniques and finding what works best for you can help in effectively managing and reducing stress levels.