Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

In the appraisal theory of stress, what does primary appraisal involve?

1. Assessing the ability to cope with stress

2. Determining the significance of an event

3. Evaluating the physiological response

4. Considering the long-term effects of stress

The correct answer is: Determining the significance of an event

In the appraisal theory of stress, primary appraisal is primarily concerned with evaluating the significance of a specific event or situation in relation to an individual’s well-being. This involves determining whether the event is perceived as irrelevant, benign-positive, or stressful. When individuals encounter a stressor, they first assess its potential impact on their lives, considering whether it poses a threat, a challenge, or if it is not significant at all. If the event is appraised as a threat or harm, it may lead to feelings of stress or anxiety, prompting further evaluation in the next step of the appraisal process, known as secondary appraisal. This second stage involves assessing one’s resources and options for coping with the stressor, but primary appraisal is strictly about the initial interpretation of the event’s significance. Understanding primary appraisal is essential in psychological assessments and interventions as it highlights how personal perceptions of events heavily influence emotional responses and coping mechanisms. This foundational concept underscores the subjective nature of stress experiences across individuals.