Psychology physiological responses to stress

GAS

1. Alarm reaction: stressor is recognised so the hypothalamus triggers adrenaline production in readiness for fight or flight- acute stress.

2. Resistance: If the stressor continues, body uses resources (e.g. sugars) and immune system become less effective (body is deteriorating)- chronic stress.

3. Exhaustion: Resources to resist the stressor are depleted and the person re-experiences initial symptoms (stage 1- fight or flight). Adrenal glands become damaged and stress related illnesses are now likely. 

SAM- acute stress

1. Sympathetic branch of the ANS is triggered by the hypothalamus when a stressor is perceived.

2. The hypothalamus signals the adrenal medullas to release adrenaline into the bloodstream

3. Hormones circulate in the bloodstream and stimulate target organs (heart, muscles)

4. When the stressor stops, the parasympathetic branch of the ANS takes over with the opposite effects, returning the body to the rest & digest state. 

HPA- chronic stress

1. The hypothalamus activates the HPA system by releasing the CRF hormone into the bloodstream.

2. The pituitary gland detects CRF & releases a hormone called ACTH into the bloodstream.

3. Adrenal glands are stimulated to release cortisol. 

4. Cortisol metabolises glucose (sugar) for energy but causes immunosuppression (more likely to get ill)

Weaknesses

• Different between males & females- biassed towards male physiology.

• More than just fight or flight as a response to acute stress- FREEZE response:  makes fight or flight an incomplete explanation.

• Fight or flight is maladaptive & doesn’t help us cope with modern day stressors. 

• Ignores psychological factors like perception of stressor & thought processes.