What behavioral problems may a person experience during a stressful event?

During a stressful event, individuals often experience a range of behavioral problems that stem from the body's natural response to stress. Difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite are common reactions. Stress can trigger a variety of physiological responses, including hyperarousal that affects sleep patterns. This may lead to insomnia or restless sleep, as anxious thoughts can dominate during the night. Additionally, stress can impact appetite, leading to either overeating or, more frequently, a decrease in the desire to eat, which is reflected in the choice that states difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite.

In contrast, the other options imply positive or neutral responses to stress, which are less typical for most people facing significant stress. For instance, increased energy and enthusiasm, improved focus, increased productivity, and enhanced social interactions might occur in certain individuals or specific situations but are not the general responses one would expect during stressful events. These responses are often more aligned with productive coping mechanisms rather than the immediate behavioral problems commonly associated with stress. Therefore, the focus on difficulty sleeping and loss of appetite represents a more accurate depiction of common behavioral issues experienced during periods of heightened stress.