Question

Describe the General Adaptation Syndrome.

Hint:

{GAS Three Stages:}

• {Alarm:} "Danger!" Body mobilizes for action
• {Resistance:} "I can handle this" Body adapts and copes
• {Exhaustion:} "I can't go on" Resources depleted, illness sets in

Answer 1

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS)

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is a three-stage model of the body's physiological response to stress, proposed by Hans Selye in 1936 based on laboratory research.

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Definition:

General Adaptation Syndrome describes the predictable pattern of physiological responses that organisms experience when exposed to prolonged stress. It consists of three stages:

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Stage 1: Alarm Reaction

• Description: Immediate reaction to a stressor; the body prepares for “fight or flight.”
• Physiological Changes:
  • Activation of the sympathetic nervous system
  • Release of adrenaline and noradrenaline
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure
  • Rapid breathing
  • Pupil dilation
  • Release of glucose for quick energy
  • Suppression of non-essential functions (e.g., digestion)
• Two Phases:
  • Shock Phase: Initial drop in resistance
  • Counter-Shock Phase: Mobilization of defenses
• Example: Hearing a loud noise and suddenly feeling tense and alert.

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Stage 2: Resistance

• Description: If stress continues, the body adapts and attempts to cope with the ongoing demand.
• Physiological Changes:
  • Activation of the HPA axis (Hypothalamus–Pituitary–Adrenal)
  • Release of cortisol and other stress hormones
  • Vital signs remain elevated but stable
  • Sustained alertness while maintaining daily functioning
• Key Feature: The body appears to cope effectively, but at a high physiological cost.
• Example: During exams, a student studies long hours and stays alert but feels constantly stressed.

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Stage 3: Exhaustion

• Description: Prolonged stress depletes bodily resources.
• Physiological Changes:
  • Reduced resistance to stress
  • Weakened immune functioning
  • Decreased energy levels
  • Greater vulnerability to illness
• Consequences:
  • Physical: Hypertension, fatigue, weakened immunity
  • Psychological: Burnout, anxiety, low mood
  • Behavioral: Reduced performance, withdrawal
• Example: Long-term caregiving leading to extreme exhaustion and illness.

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Diagrammatic Representation:

Normal Resistance Level Alarm (Shock → Counter-shock) → Resistance (Coping) → Exhaustion (Depletion)

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Key Points:

• Applies to both physical and psychological stressors
• Highlights harmful effects of prolonged stress
• Individual differences influence progression through stages
• Modern research distinguishes acute and chronic stress responses

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Clinical Implications:

• Identifying early signs of stress overload
• Developing stress management strategies
• Treating stress-related disorders
• Designing wellness programs

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Conclusion:

General Adaptation Syndrome provides a foundational framework for understanding how stress affects the body and why chronic stress can significantly impact overall health.