Question

Other research shows that looking at a picture of a loved one can make pain feel less intense. When people with strong support networks are asked to do complex mental math, their blood pressure stays lower, and there is less of a stress-related chemical in their saliva. Simply thinking about a supportive person can activate a part of the brain called the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which is associated with overcoming fear. How does this paragraph support the author's position?

A) It provides additional evidence about the connection between a person's mental or emotional state and the body's physical response to stress.
B) It demonstrates that there are ways for people to stay connected with others even when they must participate in difficult problem-solving.
C) It appeals to the reader's emotions to show that some people are better suited for living for extended periods away from their family and friends.
D) It elaborates on the scientific reasons why researchers need to do more studies on the ventromedial prefrontal cortex of isolated individuals.

Answer 1

The paragraph supports the author's position by showing how social support positively impacts one's stress response, both psychologically and physiologically.

Step-by-step explanation:

The paragraph supports the author's position by providing additional evidence about the positive effects that social support has on an individual's ability to cope with stress. It details how the physical presence of a loved one, or even just the contemplation of supportive individuals, can lead to lower blood pressure during stressful tasks and activation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which is associated with overcoming fear. Moreover, it explains that there are both psychological and physiological benefits to social support, which can manifest in improved health behaviors and reduced physiological responses to stress.