Which of the following best describes a situation caused by events such as a job change, natural disasters, or an accident?

• A. Chronic illness
• B. Financial ruin
• C. Situational problems
• D. Interpersonal conflict

Answer: (C)

External life events that disrupt functioning prompt situational problems. When something happening in the outside world—like a job change, a natural disaster, or an accident—creates immediate stress and requires the person to adjust, cope, and mobilize resources. This type of problem is defined by the precipitating event rather than by a long-term health condition or by issues within relationships. For example, losing a job can upend finances and daily routines, a disaster can displace a family and alter safety needs, and an accident can affect mobility and independence. Those are all situational because the core challenge stems from the external event and the adjustments it demands, not from a chronic illness or ongoing interpersonal conflict.