The alarm reaction stage is the first phase of the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS). It is characterized by the immediate stress response, often described as the fight-or-flight reaction, triggered by the perception of a threat. Key features include a rapid surge in heart rate and respiration, dilation of pupils, release of stress hormones (such as adrenaline and cortisol), and heightened alertness. This initial alarm prepares the body to either confront or escape the perceived danger.
Direct answer:
An example of the alarm reaction stage is a burst of energy and heightened
physiological arousal that enables a person to respond quickly to a perceived
threat—often described as the fight-or-flight response.
