An immediate physiological and psychological reaction to a specific event describes which type of stress?

• A. Delayed stress
• B. Cumulative stress
• C. Acute stress
• D. Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)

Answer: (C)

Acute stress is the body's immediate reaction to a specific event, with rapid onset of physical and emotional symptoms. This occurs right after the incident, often showing up as a pounding heart, rapid breathing, sweating, and feelings of fear or anxiety, as the fight-or-flight response kicks in. These symptoms typically peak quickly and lessen as the person processes the event or when the stressor is resolved. Delayed stress would involve symptoms that appear later, not right away. Cumulative stress results from many stressors over time, not a single event. Critical Incident Stress Management is a debriefing and support approach after critical events, not a type of stress reaction.