Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which is considered a behavioral symptom of stress in adults?

1. Dizziness

2. Poor judgment

3. Eating more

4. Irritability

The correct answer is: Eating more

Eating more is considered a behavioral symptom of stress in adults because it reflects an individual's response to emotional distress. When faced with stress, some people may seek comfort in food, leading to increased eating as a coping mechanism. This behavior is often termed "emotional eating," where food is used to alleviate negative feelings or to provide a temporary sense of relief from stressors. When under stress, individuals might find themselves turning to high-calorie comfort foods, which can provide a quick emotional boost. This response can be driven by physiological changes associated with stress, such as elevated cortisol levels, which can stimulate appetite and cravings for sugary or fatty foods. Recognizing this behavior as a coping strategy emphasizes the interplay between psychological states and eating patterns in adults experiencing stress. Other symptoms like dizziness are more physiological and relate to the body's stress response, while poor judgment and irritability can also manifest but are less commonly associated directly with behavioral changes in eating habits. Eating as a direct response to stress highlights specific behavioral adaptations in managing emotional strain.