Question

Match each portion of the GAS with its definition. 1\. Alarm and mobilization 2\. Exhaustion 3\. Resistance a. Ability to adapt to stress diminishes; symptoms appear. b. Activation of sympathetic nervous system. c. Various strategies are used to cope with a stressor.

Short answer

1. Alarm and mobilization - Activation of sympathetic nervous system. 2. Exhaustion - Ability to adapt to stress diminishes; symptoms appear. 3. Resistance - Various strategies are used to cope with a stressor.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Definitions

First, look at each individual term and corresponding definition. GAS, or General Adaptation Syndrome, is a three-stage process that describes physiological changes the body goes through when under stress.

Match the Term 'Alarm and mobilization' with Suitable Definition

The term 'Alarm and mobilization' can be associated with the definition 'Activation of the sympathetic nervous system.' This is the initial reaction to stress, where the body prepares for a fight or flight response.

Match the Term 'Exhaustion' with Suitable Definition

The term 'Exhaustion' can be associated with the definition 'Ability to adapt to stress diminishes; symptoms appear.' This stage occurs when the body has depleted its energy resources by continually trying but failing to recover from the initial act of stress.

Match the Term 'Resistance' with Suitable Definition

The term 'Resistance' can be associated with the definition 'Various strategies are used to cope with a stressor.' This is the second stage where the body tries to resist or adapt to the stressor through continued activation of physiological responses.

Check the Matches

Recheck the matches made to ensure each term has been matched correctly with its appropriate definition and that the meanings comply with the comprehension of General Adaptation Syndrome definitions.

Key concepts

Alarm and mobilization

The "Alarm and mobilization" stage is the first phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). This initial response to stress sets the stage for how the body reacts to stressors. During this phase, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, kick-starting what is commonly known as the fight or flight response.

The activation of the sympathetic nervous system triggers a variety of physiological responses:

• Increased heart rate: The heart beats faster to pump more blood to muscles.
• Rapid breathing: Provides more oxygen to the bloodstream.
• Release of adrenaline: Hormones like adrenaline surge to heighten awareness and prepare for immediate action.

This stage serves as a critical survival mechanism, allowing individuals to respond swiftly to perceived threats by either facing them head-on or retreating. However, it's essential to know that while this stage prepares the body to handle stress, it does not last very long and is quickly followed by the next stage if the stress persists.

Exhaustion stage

The "Exhaustion stage" is the third and final phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). This stage occurs when the body's ability to cope with stress has been depleted over time.

Prolonged exposure to stressors leads to the following:

• Diminished resistance: The body's defenses are weakened as energy reserves are used up.
• Emergence of symptoms: Physical symptoms such as fatigue, burnout, anxiety, and depression may appear.
• Increased vulnerability: The immune system may become compromised, leading to a higher risk of illnesses or infections.

In the exhaustion stage, the body's initial adaptive capabilities have worn out, leaving an individual susceptible to health issues. This phase highlights the importance of managing stress effectively and seeking strategies to replenish energy and resilience, ensuring that the body can recover and maintain balance.

Resistance stage

The "Resistance stage" is the second phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). At this point, the body attempts to cope with and adapt to the stressor over a more extended period.

During this stage, the body continues to fight off stress through:

• Sustained energy expenditure: The body remains on high alert, utilizing energy resources to manage the stressor.
• Adaptation mechanisms: Various coping strategies and physiological adjustments occur as the body seeks to stabilize and resist the effects of stress.
• Relative normalization: Some body functions may start to normalize as a form of adaptation to prolonged stress.

While the resistance stage allows for prolonged defense against stress, it also requires significant energy and resources. If the stressor continues without relief, it can potentially transition into the exhaustion stage. Recognizing the signs of the resistance stage and implementing stress-reducing techniques can help prevent reaching the point of exhaustion.