Which statement is a valid contrast to McGonigal's view?

Which statement is a valid contrast to McGonigal's view?

• A. Stress is always harmful and should be avoided.
• B. Believing stress has no effect on outcomes is accurate.
• C. Stress can only be harmful; there is no beneficial aspect.
• D. We should reframe stress as an energy resource.

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how to spot a statement that directly contradicts McGonigal’s stance on stress. She argues that stress isn’t inherently bad and that our beliefs about stress can shape its effects; it can even be a form of energy or resource we can use. The strongest contrast to that view is a statement that claims there are no beneficial aspects of stress at all. Saying “stress can only be harmful; there is no beneficial aspect” directly denies any upside to stress, which conflicts with McGonigal’s position. The other options don’t oppose her view as directly. Claiming stress is always harmful is a strong negative stance but still leaves room for debate about benefits in some situations. Saying stress has no effect on outcomes misstates her emphasis on belief and perception altering outcomes. Reframing stress as an energy resource actually aligns with her message, not against it.

The idea being tested is how to spot a statement that directly contradicts McGonigal’s stance on stress. She argues that stress isn’t inherently bad and that our beliefs about stress can shape its effects; it can even be a form of energy or resource we can use. The strongest contrast to that view is a statement that claims there are no beneficial aspects of stress at all. Saying “stress can only be harmful; there is no beneficial aspect” directly denies any upside to stress, which conflicts with McGonigal’s position.

The other options don’t oppose her view as directly. Claiming stress is always harmful is a strong negative stance but still leaves room for debate about benefits in some situations. Saying stress has no effect on outcomes misstates her emphasis on belief and perception altering outcomes. Reframing stress as an energy resource actually aligns with her message, not against it.