Which term describes a period of reduced economic activity affecting employment?

The term that describes a period of reduced economic activity affecting employment is "recession." In economic terms, a recession is characterized by a decline in GDP (Gross Domestic Product) for two consecutive quarters, along with rising unemployment and reduced consumer spending. During a recession, businesses may cut back on hiring, leading to job losses, and individuals may find it difficult to secure employment. This period of economic slowdown can lead to widespread effects in various sectors as companies may reduce production, cut costs, and delay investments, further impacting overall economic health. Understanding recession is crucial for recognizing the cyclical nature of economies and the potential implications for personal finance, such as saving and budgeting during uncertain times.

The other options do not accurately describe this concept; "economy" is a broad term related to the system of production and consumption in a society, "selective attention" pertains to psychology and how we focus on specific stimuli, and "white-collar career" refers to jobs typically in an office setting that require mental rather than physical labor.