82. Which of the following is typical in a fight-or-flight response?
Answer: D
Inhibited digestion is typical in a fight-or-flight response.
During a fight-or-flight response, the body prioritizes immediate survival, which often results in inhibited digestion. This physiological change allows more energy to be directed toward muscles and vital organs needed for rapid action.
A) Slowed respiration
Slowed respiration is not typical during a fight-or-flight response; rather, the body experiences an increase in respiratory rate to supply more oxygen to the muscles and brain. This heightened state of alertness is essential for responding quickly to perceived threats.
B) Slowed heart rate
A slowed heart rate contradicts the fight-or-flight response, which typically involves an increased heart rate to pump more blood to vital organs and muscles. This response prepares the body for rapid action, making a slowed heart rate inappropriate in this context.
C) Constricted pupils
Constricted pupils are not characteristic of a fight-or-flight response; instead, pupils usually dilate to allow more light in and enhance visual acuity. This dilation aids in better perception of the environment during stressful situations.
D) Inhibited digestion
Inhibited digestion is indeed typical in a fight-or-flight response, as the body diverts energy from non-essential functions like digestion to those vital for immediate survival. This physiological change allows for quicker responses to danger.
E) Inhibited perspiration
Inhibited perspiration is not a typical feature of the fight-or-flight response; rather, perspiration often increases to help cool the body during heightened physical activity. This serves to maintain optimal body temperature while responding to stress.
Conclusion
Inhibited digestion is the defining characteristic of the fight-or-flight response, as the body reallocates resources to critical functions necessary for survival. The other options reflect physiological changes that either do not occur or are opposite to what happens during this intense state of arousal, confirming that D is the correct answer.