Differentiate between situational and generalized anxiety.

Situational anxiety and generalized anxiety differ primarily in their triggers and duration. Generalized anxiety is characterized by a pervasive and persistent sense of worry and anxiety that spans a variety of situations and isn’t confined to any specific event. Individuals experiencing generalized anxiety often find it challenging to control their anxiety, which can occur more days than not for at least six months, and it affects functioning in daily life.

In contrast, situational anxiety is a response to specific events or circumstances, such as public speaking, taking an exam, or meeting new people. This type of anxiety tends to be more intense but usually lasts a shorter duration, subsiding once the situation has passed.

Thus, the distinction highlighted in the correct answer emphasizes that generalized anxiety is ongoing and not confined to particular situations, whereas situational anxiety is directly linked to specific events. This helps clarify the nature of both types of anxiety for better understanding and management.