Emotional State and Stress Perception

In psychological studies, emotions are often categorized into distinct types that can influence human behavior and physiological responses. A recent study explored the relationship between acute stress and emotional well-being. Participants were exposed to a stressful situation—public speaking—while their emotional responses were measured using a combination of self-report questionnaires and physiological indicators such as heart rate variability. The researchers found that participants who reported higher levels of anxiety during the speech also exhibited increased heart rates and decreased overall feelings of well-being.

The findings suggest a complex interplay between stress responses and emotional regulation. Specifically, the study aimed to determine whether certain emotional states could buffer the negative effects of acute stress.

Based on this context, which emotional state is most likely to be associated with a decrease in perceived stress levels during stressful situations?