Which statement defines unconscious stress?

• A. A condition that threatens functioning and is fully recognized by the child
• B. Conscious realization of threat leading to coping
• C. Any condition that threatens a child’s optimal functioning when the child is unaware of the condition
• D. A type of stress that is actively alleviated by coping strategies

Answer: (C)

Unconscious stress occurs when a condition threatens a child’s optimal functioning but remains outside the child’s awareness. Because the source isn’t recognized, the child may not name or directly address the worry and may instead show subtle signs—somatic complaints, irritability, sleep or appetite changes, withdrawal, or behavior changes—without connecting them to a specific threat. The statement that best fits this idea says a condition threatens the child’s functioning while the child is unaware of the condition. The other options imply awareness of the threat or active coping, which describes conscious stress rather than unconscious stress.