3.1.6 (3B) - GAS model

Question 1

Han’s Selye’s General Adaption Syndrome (GAS model)

Answer 1

A biological model involving 3 stages of physiological reactions that a person experiences in response to a persistent stressor.

Question 2

1. Alarm reaction

Answer 2

The 1st stage of the GAS model involving the initial decrease + subsequent increase in bodily arousal in response to an immediate stressor.
- Shock + counter shock

Question 3

Shock

Answer 3

1st substage of the alarm reaction stage involving decrease bodily arousal for a brief period of time following the initial exposure to a stressor.

Question 4

Counter shock

Answer 4

2nd substage of alarm reaction stage in which sympathetic NS responses occur that mobilise the body to respond to the stressor (adrenaline + cortisol released to energise the body to fight).

Question 5

Resistance

Answer 5

The 2nd stage of the GAS model involving maintaining high levels of bodily arousal in response to a persistent stressor.
- Cortisol begins to suppress immune system functioning but still able to cope with demands of the stressor.

Question 6

Exhaustion

Answer 6

The 3rd stage of the GAS model involving the depletion of energy levels + bodily resources, resulting in an inability to cope with the stressor.
- Body becomes unable to deal with heightened arousal and suppressed immune system means person becomes vulnerable/susceptible to illness.

Question 7

GAS model - strengths

Answer 7

• Predictable patterns measured in individuals.
• Recognise relationship between chronic stress + illness.
• provides objective info about biological processes.

Question 8

GAS model - weaknesses

Answer 8

• Reduce generalisability (originally rats).
• Only focuses on bio aspects of stress (ignores psych/how perceive).
• fails to recognise subjective nature of stress (diff people respond in diff ways).