What characterizes a recession?

A recession is characterized by a significant decline in economic activity lasting longer than a few months. This decline can manifest in several ways, including decreased consumer spending, reduced investment by businesses, lower industrial production, and rising unemployment rates. The definition typically hinges on a sustained drop in a country's gross domestic product (GDP), which reflects the overall economic health. When there is a widespread downturn in economic activities across various sectors, it constitutes a recession.

In this context, recognizing that a decline, rather than growth, marks a recession is crucial. While some economic indicators may fluctuate temporarily, a recession is defined by its lasting impact on the economy, which is evident in prolonged periods of poor economic performance. Other options reflect various economic conditions but do not accurately represent the defining features of a recession. For instance, a period of economic stagnation might not involve the steep decline necessary to classify it as a recession, while increases in employment or a flourishing stock market signify economic growth rather than contraction.