General Adaptation Syndrome

General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is a theoretical model that describes the body's physiological response to stress. It was first proposed by the Hungarian endocrinologist Hans Selye in 1936. The model suggests that the body goes through three stages when exposed to stress: the alarm stage, the resistance stage, and the exhaustion stage.

Alarm Stage

The alarm stage is the initial response to stress. During this stage, the body activates its fight-or-flight response, a survival mechanism that prepares the body to either confront or flee from the threat. This response is characterized by the release of adrenaline and cortisol, hormones that increase heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels to provide the body with a burst of energy.

Resistance Stage

If the stressor persists, the body enters the resistance stage. During this stage, the body attempts to resist or adapt to the stressor. The body continues to produce cortisol and other stress hormones, but at a slower rate. The body's defenses are now fully mobilized, and it attempts to return to normal functioning while continuing to resist the stressor.

Exhaustion Stage

The exhaustion stage occurs if the stressor continues for a prolonged period. The body's ability to resist the stressor diminishes as its resources become depleted. This stage is characterized by fatigue, decreased immunity, and a reduced ability to cope with stress. If not managed properly, this stage can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, hypertension, and mental illness.

Criticisms and Limitations

While the General Adaptation Syndrome model has been influential in stress research, it has also been criticized. Some critics argue that the model oversimplifies the body's response to stress and does not account for individual differences in stress response. Others point out that the model does not consider the psychological aspects of stress, focusing solely on the physiological response.

See Also

• Stress (biology)
• Fight-or-flight response
• Hans Selye