Because it is a painful state that we try to avoid, anxiety can be the source of defensive behavior. For this reason, the relationship of anxiety to stressful situations is significant. Anxiety may be seen as both an emotional state and a drive. As you read the text, try to answer the following questions. Describe an experimental study involving anxiety reduction.
Anxiety is a state characterized by vague fear or premonition.
The impending danger may be seen as a punishment, or a threat to self-esteem. The object of anxiety, unlike that of fear, is not clearly perceived. Anxiety and fear have much in common since both represent a response to danger. However, fear is a response to real danger, while the cause of anxiety is not apparent. Thus, anxiety may be thought of as a signal of an impending threat to the individual Anxiety is an unpleasant state and, because of its vagueness, it is difficult to cope with.