A 47-year-old woman completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and scored 20. What does this score indicate?

Choice A reason: This is correct. The STAI score range indicates that 20 reflects minimal anxiety symptoms, representing low-level or mild anxiety. Choice B reason: Minor anxiety is not a standardized interpretation within the STAI scoring system; “low-level” is more accurate. Choice C reason: Moderate anxiety is associated with higher STAI scores, typically above 30. Choice D reason: Severe anxiety corresponds to even higher STAI scores, usually well above 40, indicating significant distress.