Which symptom would overexposure to stressful situations most likely exacerbate in a person with anxiety disorders?

Overexposure to stressful situations in individuals with anxiety disorders is most likely to exacerbate heightened emotional responses. Anxiety disorders are characterized by an increased sensitivity to stress and a tendency to experience overwhelming emotions when faced with challenging situations. Continuous exposure to stress can lead to hyperarousal, where individuals may react more intensely to stimuli that would otherwise be manageable. This heightened emotional response can manifest as increased anxiety, panic attacks, irritability, and mood swings.

In contrast, the other options suggest positive outcomes or neutral effects that are less likely to be associated with the experience of anxiety. For instance, increased physical strength, better coping strategies, and enhanced focus on tasks are not typical reactions to stress and may even indicate a level of resilience or adaptation that a person with an anxiety disorder may struggle to achieve under pressure. Therefore, heightened emotional responses accurately reflect the complications that can arise from excessive stress exposure in this context.