Final answer:
The best example of a cognitive reaction to stress is (c) yelling at your sister, which represents a behavioral response influenced by mental and emotional strain. Unlike physiological reactions or distractions, cognitive reactions involve the impairment of mental processes such as judgment and reasoning under stress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best example of a cognitive reaction to stress among the given options is (c) yelling at your sister. This option exemplifies a behavioral manifestation of stress where cognition (one's thoughts and judgments) influences one's actions, in this case, yelling stemming from the emotional and mental strain. Options (a) developing high blood pressure and (b) catching a cold are physiological responses, while (d) getting lost while driving to the store could be a result of distraction or inattention, but does not directly indicate a cognitive reaction to stress. The cognitive reaction involves processes such as perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning, which can be impacted under stress. For instance, stress can affect concentration, lead to difficulty in making decisions, or result in emotional responses such as irritability or anger directed towards others, as in the case of yelling at a family member.
Researchers have noted that while the stress response can be beneficial in acute situations by preparing us to deal with potential danger, chronic stress can lead to health implications, including high blood pressure and weakened immune systems. Chronic cognitive stress reactions may contribute to psychophysiological disorders. Therefore, managing cognitive reactions to stress is essential for psychological well-being and health.