Chapter 2 - History of the Concept of Stress

Question 1

Define stress

Answer 1

A bodily or mental tension resulting from factors that tend to alter an existent equilibrium.

Question 2

Define stressor

Answer 2

A stimulus event that challenges the integrity, or health, of the body.

Question 3

Define stress response

Answer 3

A compensatory reaction the body makes to the challenge of a stressor.

Question 4

Define allostasis

Answer 4

Allostasis is the state of maintaining homeostasis even if it involves a wear and tear on the system.

Question 5

Give an example of the difference between allostasis and homeostasis.

Answer 5

Consider the case of a person who is left in the cold, and who can maintain a homeostatically normal body temperature, but only by violently shivering and vigorous movement. In this case, the homeostatic adaptation the person has made to the cold is costly and highly energy consuming.

Question 6

Define allostatic load

Answer 6

Allostatic load is the cost of maintaining homeostasis in the face of continuing challenges.