Which is an indicator of Level 3 Stress Potential?

• A. Well-functioning family support
• B. Admittance for asthma and dad joking about Manuel being scared
• C. Minimal signs of stress
• D. Chronic diagnosis (diabetes, kidney issues, etc.)

Answer: (D)

A chronic medical diagnosis signals Level 3 Stress Potential because it creates ongoing, unrelenting demands on the child and family. Managing a chronic condition means daily treatment routines, potential hospital visits, medication side effects, school absences, and constant alertness to health changes. This sustained burden can erode coping resources, increase uncertainty, and heighten emotional and physical stress for both the child and their caregivers, elevating the risk of higher stress potential.

In contrast, a well-functioning family support system acts as a protective factor that buffers stress; minimal signs of stress suggest lower risk; and having an asthma admission with a parent making light of the child’s fear may indicate some distress but not the persistent, long-term burden that a chronic diagnosis represents.