Which term describes positive stress that energizes a person and helps a person reach a goal?

• A. Distress
• B. Stress
• C. Eustress
• D. Subjective well-being

Answer: (C)

Positive stress that energizes a person and helps reach a goal is eustress. Eustress happens when a situation is seen as a challenge rather than a threat, which taps into motivation, focus, and energy to perform well. It tends to be short-term and manageable, often boosting alertness and drive to meet a goal. Distress describes negative stress that drains energy, fuels anxiety, and can impair performance. The general term stress doesn’t specify whether the experience is beneficial or harmful, so it’s too broad. Subjective well-being covers overall happiness and life satisfaction, not the specific quality of stress or its immediate impact on goal-directed action.