How does stress specifically affect divers while underwater?

Stress can significantly impact a diver's performance and decision-making abilities while underwater. When a diver experiences stress, it triggers a physiological response that can lead to increased heart rate, shallow breathing, and heightened anxiety. These factors can cloud judgment and make it difficult to think clearly or respond appropriately to situations that may arise during a dive.

Underwater, the challenges of managing gear, monitoring air supply, and responding to environmental changes are already demanding. When stress is added to the mix, divers may struggle to recall skills learned during training or fail to follow safety protocols, which is crucial for a safe diving experience. Impaired decision-making under stress could lead to potentially dangerous situations, such as ascending too quickly or not recognizing a problem with their equipment.

The other options do not accurately reflect the effects of stress on divers. For instance, stress does not increase lung capacity or enhance physical strength; rather, it can result in reduced efficiency in breathing and physical performance. Similarly, stress does not decrease buoyancy, as buoyancy is primarily influenced by the diver's gear and body density rather than emotional or psychological states.