Identify the psychological characteristic that is best illustrated by each of the examples below. Choose from the following: a. high level of personal control b. optimistic explanatory style c. Type A behavior pattern d. Type B behavior pattern e. pessimistic explanatory style f. chronic negative emotions In order to deal with the high levels of stress associated with returning to college full-time, Pat selected her courses carefully, arranged her work and study schedules to make the best use of her time, and scheduled time for daily exercise and social activities.

First, let's briefly understand each of the six psychological characteristics mentioned: a. High level of personal control: People with high levels of personal control believe they can influence their environment and control their behavior, thereby reducing their stress levels. b. Optimistic explanatory style: People with an optimistic explanatory style attribute positive events to their personal abilities and attribute negative events to external factors. c. Type A behavior pattern: People with Type A behavior are characterized by a strong sense of urgency, competitiveness, and a constant need to achieve goals. d. Type B behavior pattern: People with Type B behavior are characterized by a relaxed and easygoing personality, with no sense of urgency and less competitiveness. e. Pessimistic explanatory style: People with a pessimistic explanatory style attribute negative events to their personal flaws and believe they don't have the power to change their situation. f. Chronic negative emotions: Individuals who experience chronic negative emotions are constantly affected by feelings such as sadness, anger, and anxiety, which can lead to long-term stress. Now, let's analyze Pat's behavior and identify the most suitable psychological characteristic.

Pat is returning to college full-time and experiencing high stress levels. To manage her stress, she: 1. Carefully selects her courses. 2. Arranges her work and study schedules efficiently. 3. Schedules time for daily exercise and social activities. These actions indicate that Pat is taking conscious steps to manage her stress by planning and organizing her life, showing a sense of control over her environment.

Based on the analysis of Pat's behavior, we can conclude that the psychological characteristic that best illustrates her actions is: a. High level of personal control. This is because Pat is taking active steps to manage her stress by planning her time, selecting her courses, and allocating time for exercise and social activities, showing her ability to influence her environment and control her behavior.