In recent psychological studies, researchers have explored the nuances of emotional responses to chronic stress. One key aspect of their findings is the difference between primary and secondary emotions experienced in response to stressful situations. Primary emotions are immediate reactions to stimuli, such as fear or joy, while secondary emotions are more complex and arise from our thoughts about the primary emotions, such as feeling ashamed for being afraid. Understanding these distinctions can lead to better therapeutic strategies for managing stress-related disorders.
Given this context, which of the following statements best describes the influence of secondary emotions on coping with chronic stress?