Concept:
The "fight or flight" response is a physiological reaction that occurs when the body encounters a stressful or threatening situation. This response prepares the body for rapid action.
Step 1:Role of the sympathetic nervous system.
When the brain perceives danger, the sympathetic nervous system stimulates the adrenal medulla to release hormones into the bloodstream.
Step 2:Release of adrenaline.
The adrenal medulla secretes the hormone
adrenaline (epinephrine), which rapidly prepares the body to respond to stress.
Step 3:Physiological effects of adrenaline.
Adrenaline produces several immediate effects:
- Increases heart rate and blood pressure
- Dilates airways in the lungs
- Increases blood glucose levels
- Redirects blood flow to muscles
These changes enable the body to either confront the threat or escape from it.
Therefore, the hormone primarily responsible for the
"fight or flight" response is
adrenaline (epinephrine).