What cognitive symptom is commonly associated with stress?

Impaired decision-making is a cognitive symptom commonly associated with stress due to the way stress affects brain function. High levels of stress can lead to heightened anxiety and distractibility, which in turn hampers the ability to think clearly and make judicious decisions. When under stress, the body’s fight-or-flight response can suppress the rational thought processes that are crucial for effective decision-making. This results in an inability to weigh options and consider consequences, leading to rushed or poor choices.

In contrast, options such as improved focus capabilities, enhanced memory retention, and increased task engagement are generally not associated with stress. While some individuals might temporarily feel heightened focus in moments of acute stress due to adrenaline, this effect is inconsistent and doesn't lead to better decision outcomes overall. Similarly, stress tends to disrupt memory functions rather than enhance them, making it harder to retain and recall information. Lastly, increased task engagement is often a positive behavioral response, which may not occur under stress as the cognitive overload can result in disengagement or avoidance.