What symptom is most likely to be reported by adolescents under stress?

Adolescents under stress commonly exhibit increased levels of carelessness, which can manifest as forgetfulness, lack of attention to detail, or an inability to follow through on tasks. This symptom can be attributed to the cognitive overload that stress imposes on an individual. When adolescents are experiencing high levels of stress, their ability to focus and manage responsibilities may decline, leading them to overlook important details or fail to engage with their usual commitments and activities.

In the context of adolescent development, stress can disrupt emotional regulation and cognitive function, resulting in behaviors that may reflect a more careless approach to responsibilities. This is especially evident in school settings where stressors such as academic pressure, social dynamics, and personal issues converge. Therefore, carelessness becomes a significant indicator of how stress can affect adolescents, differentiating it from options that suggest positive outcomes like improved peer relationships, heightened alertness, or boosted self-esteem, which are less typical responses to overwhelming stress.