Depending upon the type of stress, there are several type of emotional reactions. If an individual perceives stress as an excitement and challenge which can be handled then he experiences positive emotions like happiness, joy and exuberance. But if the individual interprets stress as a challenging situation, then it leads to insecurity and is uncontrollable. As a result, the individual experiences negative effects like - fear, depression, anger etc. Such negative emotional reactions obstruct the individual's ability to cope up with the stress. There is variation in stress in terms of intensity, duration, complexity and predictability. (i) Intensity - high or low (ii) Duration - short term or long term. (iii) Complexity - less or more completed (v) Predictability - unexpected or expected
Usually, more intense, prolonged, complex and unexpected stress causes negative reactions. While expected stress with low intensity and short duration does not cause negative reactions. The nature of reactions can be determined by the cultural background of the people. Moreover factors like money, medical facilities, personal and social skills and skills to cope up with stress also play an important role. Thus,all these factors determine the appraisal of a given stressful situation.