What intervention should be prioritized for a family reporting challenges in coping with the loss of their home and a child's decreased school performance?

Choice A reason: Normalization of blood pressure and hormone levels occurs during the recovery stage, when the stressor is removed and the body returns to homeostasis. In the resistance stage, the body is still actively responding to stress.

Choice B reason: The resistance stage is characterized by the continued release of stress hormones such as cortisol. These hormones help the body maintain adaptation to ongoing stress, keeping vital signs closer to baseline despite the persistent stressor. This makes it the correct answer.

Choice C reason: Heightened alertness and circulation are features of the alarm stage, the initial fight-or-flight response. They are not sustained in the resistance stage.

Choice D reason: Inability to adapt occurs in the exhaustion stage, when the body’s resources are depleted. The resistance stage is defined by adaptation, not failure.

Choice A reason: Scapegoating external factors is a maladaptive coping mechanism. It shifts responsibility away from the individual, prevents constructive problem-solving, and can damage relationships.

Choice B reason: Projecting feelings onto others is also maladaptive. It externalizes internal stress and creates interpersonal conflict, worsening the situation rather than managing it.

Choice C reason: Avoidance by ignoring the stressor may provide temporary relief but does not promote effective coping. The stressor remains unresolved, and avoidance can lead to increased anxiety or poor outcomes.

Choice D reason: Relaxation techniques are effective for managing eustress because they reduce physiological arousal, promote calmness, and help the client maintain focus. Eustress is positive stress that motivates growth, and relaxation techniques ensure it does not escalate into distress.