Final answer:
Research suggests that stress is a common experience for Americans across the socioeconomic spectrum, intensified by economic downturns like the Great Recession, which have affected not only those at the bottom but also those in higher socioeconomic positions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The studies show that the stress American feel is not isolated to a certain class; those at the top of the socioeconomic gradient feel the stress in equal measure to those at the bottom. The research indicates that factors leading to stress, such as lack of control and predictability, and resource inequality affect individuals across the social spectrum. Additionally, the recent economic challenges, such as the Great Recession, have led to a rise in distress among various groups, including men, Hispanic people aged 45-64, college graduates, and those with full-time employment. This suggests that economic downturns and the associated insecurities can be significant stressors regardless of social status.