Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) Practice Exam

Which type of stress is characterized by brief increases in heart rate?

1. Positive stress

2. Toxic stress

3. Chronic stress

4. Negative stress

The correct answer is: Positive stress

The type of stress characterized by brief increases in heart rate is positive stress. Positive stress, often referred to as eustress, is a response to challenging situations that can motivate individuals to perform better and achieve goals. This type of stress can lead to a temporary increase in heart rate as the body prepares to respond to a challenge, such as during a presentation or competition. This physiological response is part of the body's natural way of coping with stressors that are perceived as manageable and enjoyable, helping individuals to harness energy and focus on tasks at hand. Unlike toxic stress, which results from excessive and prolonged challenges without adequate support, or chronic stress, which is constant and can lead to detrimental health effects, positive stress tends to have beneficial outcomes when experienced in moderation. Negative stress generally refers to distress, which can be overwhelming and harmful in the long term, so it is not aligned with the brief heart rate increases typically associated with positive stress.