AO1 - Fight or Flight Response

• 1. A stressor is identified by the hypothalamus, which activates the pituitary gland which triggers activity in the sympathetic branch of the ANS
• 2. Adrenaline is released into the blood stream by the adrenal medulla
• 3. Fight or flight response is triggered, preparing the body for sudden physical action - produces physiological reactions such as increased heart rate and breathing. This is immediate and automatic
• 4. Parasympathetic branch returns the body back to normal when relaxed, conserves energy because the stressor has been removed
• Direct affect of adrenaline: Physiological reactions such as increased heart rate and breathing - this increases blood flow to the brain and skeletal muscles
• Indirect affect of adrenaline: Prepares the body for action by increasing blood supply to skeletal muscles, stops digestion (inactive gut) and saliva production - increase in oxygen to brain for rapid response planning