Final answer:
The statement is false; stress can impair task performance and cognitive function when it becomes excessive (distress). However, moderate stress (eustress) can have beneficial effects, improving performance and cognitive function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that stress does not impair task performance and cognitive function is false. In truth, stress can have both positive and negative effects on performance and cognitive function. This dual nature can be understood by distinguishing between eustress and distress.
Eustress refers to the beneficial effect of stress that can actually enhance performance and well-being. This kind of stress is associated with positive feelings and optimal health, as well as enhanced cognitive performance. For example, a moderate amount of stress before an exam can lead to better recall of educational material, which indicates that stress serves as a motivational factor. Research suggests that this moderate stress can improve immediate and delayed retrieval of educationally relevant material (Hupbach & Fieman, 2012).
In contrast, excessive stress or distress can be harmful. When stress levels exceed the optimal level, they result in a decline in performance, poor health, and a general feeling of being burned out. At this point, stress impairs cognitive function and makes tasks harder to perform. Therefore, there's a balance to be found where a certain level of stress can improve performance and cognition, whereas too much stress can be detrimental (Everly & Lating, 2002).