Biopsychology: Endocrine Systems & the Fight/Flight Response

Question 1

Describe what happens during a Sudden Stress Response

Answer 1

1. CNS processes fear in the amygdale which sends distress signal to the hypothalamus
2. Hypothalamus releases CHR into the bloodstream
3. SNS preps body for action
4. Adrenal Medulla releases adrenaline into the bloodstream
5. PNS dampens stress response once threat has passed

Question 2

Describe what happens during a Chronic Stress Response

Answer 2

When the body tries to fight the threat to no avail:
1. HPA resends message to hypothalamus
2. Releases more CRH into the bloodstream
3. Pituitary gland releases ACTH into the bloodstream
4. Causes adrenal cortex to release stress hormones like cortisol which gives us more energy
5. Cortisol causes brain fog - supresses immune system, increases pain tolerance
6. Feedback system inhibits CRH and ACTH production if cortisol is too high

Question 3

AO3 of FoF
“Stress may lead to greater cooperative behaviour”

Answer 3

• humans are social animals
• Von Dawans et al study found that acute stress can lead to greater cooperative and friendly behaviour
• could explain human connection during times of crisis

Question 4

AO3 of FoF
“Individual Differences”

Answer 4

• Lee and Harley found evidence of a genetic basis
• SRY gene found on the Y male chromosome
• promotes aggression in response to stress

Question 5

AO3 of FoF
“Freeze Response”

Answer 5

• Gray 1988 suggests that first phase is to avoid confrontation, not fight or flight
• suggests freezing forces us to take in the environment, so we are hyper-vigilant and alert to danger

Question 6

AO3 of FoF
“Modern Context”

Answer 6

• humans are under constant stress
• if the body is under constant stress, the FoF response will become less effective
• can lead to damage in blood vessels and eventually heart disease
• cortisol suppresses the immune system and increases likelihood of stress-related diseases