Eustress refers to which type of mental or physical reaction to an event?

• A. Positive
• B. Negative
• C. Neutral
• D. Mixed

Answer: (A)

Eustress is the positive form of stress—the reaction to an event that is seen as a challenge you’re capable of meeting. When you experience eustress, you feel motivated, energized, and focused, which can enhance performance and prompt growth. Common examples include starting a new job, preparing for a demanding performance, or taking on a deadline you’re excited about. The perception of being able to cope with the situation is what makes this stress beneficial, channeling arousal into constructive effort rather than worry. That’s why the best choice is Positive. Distress would be the negative side of stress, neutral wouldn’t involve that evaluative impact, and mixed would imply both positive and negative, whereas eustress is specifically the positive type.