Stress as a Psychobiological process

One of the hormones secreted during the fight–flight–freeze response is

• cortical.

• adrenaline.

• cortisol.

• ACTH.

Fight–flight–freeze is best described as a

• specific reaction occurring in a specific sequence.

• series of three specific reactions occurring independently.

• naturally occurring learned response.

• naturally occurring unconscious response.

A benefit of fight–flight–freeze is that

• the body is quickly energised to react to a threat.

• it enables an organism to successfully adapt to all types of situations.

• it prevents organisms from being harmed by stressors that are threatening.

• the individual organism can choose how to respond to a threat depending on the situation.

The sympathetic nervous system

• activates bodily functions to deal with an immediate stressor.

• activates muscular relaxation and decreases heart rate.

• counterbalances the energising effects of the parasympathetic system.

• maintains the internal systems of the body in a balanced state.

As you walk down the street on your way to visit a friend, a ferocious dog jumps a fence and chases you, barking and growling. Which of the following systems is least likely to be dominant as you try to flee from the dog?

• sympathetic

• cardiovascular

• endocrine

• parasympathetic

Which of the following potential stressors would be classified as having an internal source?

• travelling in an overcrowded peak hour train

• being refused entry to an important exam for being late

• achieving a lower grade than expected for a SAC

• being bullied by another student

Hormones of the body’s endocrine system are important contributors to stress response. Which gland in the brain initiates hormonal secretion?

• pituitary

• hypothalamus

• adrenal

• amygdala

A life event such as moving out from home to live alone could be a stressor because it

• involves adjustment to change.

• is a choice people make.

• can be positive or negative.

• depends on the individual involved and their interpretation of the specific event.

Why does the temperature in our hands drop when exposed to a stressor?

• We breathe in less oxygen.

• We feel threatened or fearful.

• To support cortisol’s immunity requirements.

• Blood flow diverts to major muscle groups for possible fight or flight.

Which of the following is an example of an approach coping strategy?

• ‘I exercise more.’

• ‘I eat.’

• ‘I sleep more.’

• ‘I get busy with other things to keep my mind off it.’