Ruminative thinking generally leads to which type of emotional response?

Ruminative thinking is characterized by persistent focus on distressing emotions, problems, and uncertainties. This type of thinking tends to keep individuals stuck in a cycle of worry and negative thoughts, rather than leading them towards resolutions. As a result, people who engage in ruminative thinking often experience heightened levels of stress and anxiety. This occurs because their preoccupation with negative feelings and unresolved issues amplifies emotional distress, making it harder to move forward or find effective solutions.

In contrast, the other options suggest outcomes that are typically not associated with ruminative thinking. Increased motivation, calmness, acceptance, and improved problem-solving require a more constructive and future-oriented mindset, which is often hindered by the pervasive anxiety that ruminative thoughts can create. Thus, heightened stress and anxiety is the emotional response most directly linked to ruminative thinking patterns.