Final answer:
Stressors that are either repeated or prolonged are referred to as chronic stressors, which can lead to long-term physiological and emotional health problems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stressors that are either repeated or prolonged are best referred to as chronic stressors. This category includes persistent events such as long-term illness, caring for a family member with a chronic condition, continuous job stress, or ongoing financial difficulties. Unlike acute stressors, which are intense but short-lived, chronic stressors can lead to sustained physiological stress responses, sometimes exacerbating health problems or leading to psychophysiological disorders such as heightened blood pressure resulting in cardiovascular diseases. Chronic stress can also weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Moreover, chronic stress may result in ongoing emotional strain and coping difficulties, potentially leading to conditions like depression or anxiety.