Which statement best characterizes Selye's stress theory?

Which statement best characterizes Selye's stress theory?

• A. Stimulus-based model
• B. Response based model
• C. Transaction-based model
• D. A process including internal and external demands and resources

Answer: (B)

Selye’s theory centers on the body's nonspecific physiological response to any demand or stressor. The General Adaptation Syndrome describes a generic sequence—alarm, resistance, then exhaustion—that occurs regardless of the type of stressor, highlighting a unified bodily reaction rather than focusing on the external event itself. This makes the model a response-based view, emphasizing how the organism adapts physiologically rather than how a person appraises or handles the situation. In contrast, a statement about internal and external demands and resources reflects a transactional approach, which concerns appraisal, coping, and resource management. So the best characterization is that stress is a nonspecific body response to diverse stressors.

Selye’s theory centers on the body's nonspecific physiological response to any demand or stressor. The General Adaptation Syndrome describes a generic sequence—alarm, resistance, then exhaustion—that occurs regardless of the type of stressor, highlighting a unified bodily reaction rather than focusing on the external event itself. This makes the model a response-based view, emphasizing how the organism adapts physiologically rather than how a person appraises or handles the situation. In contrast, a statement about internal and external demands and resources reflects a transactional approach, which concerns appraisal, coping, and resource management. So the best characterization is that stress is a nonspecific body response to diverse stressors.