Chapter 3 - Stress as an example of a psychobiological process

Question 1

Define the term stress

Answer 1

A state of mental, emotional and physiological tension, resulting from “something”

Question 2

Explaing why stress is considered a psychobiological process

Answer 2

It involves the interactions between psychological and biological factors within an individual

Psychological factors focuses on how an individual feels (e.g fear)

Biological factors focuses on physical responses within an individual (e.g heart rate increasing)

Question 3

Define internal stressors and provide an example

Answer 3

Originates within an individual and can be both psychological and biological

For example: An individual may set high expectations for themselves and will always talk negative about themselves and always needs to be perfect

Question 4

Define external stressors and provide an example

Answer 4

Originates outside of an individual (environmental & sociocultural)

For example: for environmental factors, and individual might fine discomfort to focus with loud noises or extreme hot temperatures

For sociocultural factors, an individual may be experiencing a major life event such as losing a loved one, divorce, etc.

Question 5

Define acute stress and how it outlines the role of fight-flight-freeze response, and provide an example

Answer 5

Acute stress occurs when a sudden threat appears that only lasts for a short time

Fight-flight-freeze is a process that we process automatically. It occurs very rapidly, without our awareness and more sudden and intense

For example: If you see a snake while walking at the park you can either react in three different ways; flight (run), fight (catch the snake) or freeze (not sure how to react and do).

Question 6

Define chronic stress and outline the role of the cortisol

Answer 6

Chronic stress is a prolonged and a constant feeling of stress

Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is produced by the individual’s 2 adrenal glands, which sit on top of each kidney.
When you are stressed, increased cortisol is released into your bloodstream. Having the right cortisol balance is essential for your health, and producing too much or too little cortisol can cause health problems.

Question 7

Gut-Brain Axis

Answer 7

Brain to gut: Stress can disturb the composition of the gut microbiota

Gut to brain: The disturbance of the gut microbiota which can lead to changes of the mood-stablising neurotransmitter production - where it can help control mood such as dopamine, GABA and serotonin.
This can further make the individual feel more stress, not being able to think and can lead to having mental problems.

Question 8

I show context specific effectiveness when…

Answer 8

I am able to figure out whether a coping strategy is effective by tracking my physiological responses

For example: Monitoring my heart rate if it decreases from meditation to cope with my stress

Question 9

I show coping flexibility when…

Answer 9

I am able to adjust my coping strategy depending on what event happens

For example: From procrastinating my studies (avoidant) to studying (approach) when my test is near.