The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) Flashcards
Who conducted experiments that led to the development of the general adaptation syndrome (GAS)?
Hans Selye, 1936
What types of stressors did Selye use in his experiments?
Extreme cold, surgical injury
What was a key finding of Selye’s experiments regarding bodily responses to stressors?
The bodily responses were the same regardless of the stressor
What does Selye’s conclusion suggest about stress?
Stress is a general response of the body to any stressor
What does the term ‘general adaptation syndrome’ imply?
It is a general reaction to all stressors, adaptive in nature, and a syndrome of responses
Fill in the blank: Selye called the body’s response to stressors the _______.
general adaptation syndrome
True or False: The general adaptation syndrome is specific to certain stressors.
False
What are the three characteristics that define the general adaptation syndrome?
- General (a reaction to all stressors)
- Adaptive (helps the body cope)
- Syndrome (a group of responses)
What happens in Stage 1 of the stress response?
When the threat or stressor is recognized, the hypothalamus triggers the production of adrenaline/noradrenaline in readiness for fight or flight.
What occurs in Stage 2 of the stress response?
When the threat/stressor ends, functioning returns to normal levels. If the stressor continues, a longer-term stress response starts using up the body’s resources.
What are the physiological effects in Stage 2 of the stress response?
The body appears to be coping, but physiologically, things are deteriorating, such as a less effective immune system.
What characterizes Stage 3 of the stress response?
The resources needed to resist the stressor are depleted, and the individual begins to re-experience initial symptoms.
What symptoms may reappear in Stage 3 of the stress response?
Symptoms such as sweating and raised heart rate may reappear.
What are the potential consequences of prolonged stress in Stage 3?
The adrenal glands may become damaged, the immune system compromised, and stress-related illnesses such as coronary heart disease are likely.
