which of the following is an example of the alarm reaction stage of the general adaptation syndrome?

The alarm reaction stage of the general adaptation syndrome is best illustrated by a sudden burst of energy and fight‑or‑flight response immediately after encountering a stressor.

Direct example

A classic example (and the one commonly used in multiple‑choice questions) is:

• “A burst of energy enables Hassan to run fast when he sees a skunk in his path.”
  This shows the immediate, automatic fight‑or‑flight response—heart rate and adrenaline surge so he can quickly escape the threat.

What happens in the alarm stage?

• The hypothalamus detects the stressor and activates the sympathetic nervous system.

• Adrenal glands release adrenaline and cortisol, causing increased heart rate, blood pressure, and a surge of energy to deal with danger.

How to recognize alarm vs. other stages

• Alarm reaction: Sudden startle and energy burst right when the stressor appears (e.g., sprinting away when something jumps out at night).

• Resistance: Continued coping and maintained alertness if the stressor persists (e.g., ongoing effort to stay safe or keep working under stress).

• Exhaustion: Collapse or extreme fatigue after prolonged stress, when the body’s resources are depleted.

So, among options like collapsing after a marathon or sleepwalking after too much candy, the alarm reaction example is the immediate burst of energy to escape a sudden threat.

Meta description: Learn which scenario correctly illustrates the alarm reaction stage of the general adaptation syndrome, how this first stage of stress response works physiologically, and how it differs from resistance and exhaustion stages.