In the General Adaptation Syndrome, which stage is the initial response to a new stressor?

• A. Alarm
• B. Resistance
• C. Exhaustion
• D. Restoration

Answer: (A)

The initial response to a new stressor is the alarm stage. In this phase the body rapidly mobilizes resources to confront a threat: the sympathetic nervous system activates, hormones like adrenaline begin to surge, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis kicks in, releasing cortisol. These changes accelerate heart rate and blood pressure, raise blood glucose, and heighten alertness and readiness for action. This immediate, rapid mobilization defines the alarm stage and is why it is the correct answer.

If the stress continues, the body moves into the resistance stage, attempting to cope by adjusting energy use and hormonal balance. When stress is prolonged or overwhelming, resources can become depleted, leading to exhaustion. The option describing restoration is not part of the classic General Adaptation Syndrome stages.