13. Psychobiology

Question 1

what is the fight vs flight response?

Answer 1

the physiological response to stress

Question 2

what are the 3 stages of Selye’s general adaptation syndrome?

Answer 2

1: alarm reaction: shift to sympathetic dominance therefore increasing arousal
2. resistance: endocrine system releases ACTH to maintain increased arousal
3. exhaustion: adrenals lose their ability to function normally

Question 3

what are the sequence of events that link stress to disease?

Answer 3

events –> stress –> physiological changes –> disease

OR

events –> stress –> behavioural changes –> disease

Question 4

what is the effect of stress on immune functioning?

Answer 4

stress leads to immunosuppression

Question 5

what are the key components of “type A behaviour”?

Answer 5

• time urgency
• free-floating hostility
• hyper-aggressiveness
• focus on accomplishment
• competitive and goal-driven

Question 6

what is the relationship between displaying type A behaviour and cardiovascular health?

Answer 6

there is an increased risk of coronary heart disease

Question 7

what are the components of stress management?

Answer 7

• organisation
• time management
• recognising stress
• appraisal review
• relaxation techniques
• social support
• formal support