Which term describes life events like divorce or death that are seen as a hindrance?

The term that best describes life events like divorce or death, which are perceived as hindrances in a person’s life, is “negative life events.” These types of events typically have significant emotional and psychological impacts, often leading to stress and distress, which can affect one's overall wellbeing and functioning. They are characterized by their disruptive nature and the challenging circumstances they create for individuals.

Negative life events are recognized in various fields, including psychology and social science, as factors that can lead to increased stress levels and may hinder personal and professional growth. In contrast to the other options, negative life events specifically capture the depth and intensity of major life changes that can be detrimental to an individual's emotional state and day-to-day coping ability.

Financial uncertainty pertains to concerns regarding financial stability but does not inherently include the emotional toll of significant personal losses. Daily hassles involve minor everyday challenges that, while they add up and can create stress, are not as impactful or life-altering as events like divorce or death. Role overload refers to the feeling of being overwhelmed due to the demands of multiple roles one may be trying to juggle, which is distinct from the life events that cause significant emotional distress.