fight or flight

• What is the fight-or-flight response?


  A physiological reaction to perceived threats
• Why does the fight-or-flight response make sense from an evolutionary perspective?

  It prepares the body to survive predator attacks
• What happens to the body during the fight-or-flight response?

  Heart rate and breathing rate increase
• How does modern stress differ from evolutionary stressors?

  Modern stressors are often non-physical threats
• What positive effects can acute stress have?

  Increased alertness and quick thinking
• What is the impact of chronic stress on the body?

  It can lead to physical and mental health issues
• What hormone is secreted during the stress response?

  Cortisol
• What does the HPA axis stand for?

  Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal axis
• What triggers the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline?

  The sympathetic adrenal medulla pathway
• What are the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline on the body?

  Increased blood flow and faster breathing
• How does chronic stress affect the immune system?

  It suppresses immune function and increases disease risk
• What can chronic stress increase the risk of?

  Heart disease and obesity
• What alternative response do women have to stress according to Taylor (2000)?

  Tend-and-befriend response
• What is a common symptom of chronic stress?

  Increased anxiety and tension
• Why is social connection important for stress management?

  It provides emotional support and reduces isolation
• How can breathing techniques counteract stress responses?

  They lower heart rate and promote relaxation
• What are the physiological changes during the fight-or-flight response?

  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Rapid breathing for oxygen intake
  • Dilated pupils for improved vision
  • Diverted blood flow from non-essential systems
  • Heightened alertness and mental focus