College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

In which part of the brain does the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) occur?

1. Cerebellum

2. Cerebrum

3. Hypothalamus

4. Brainstem

The correct answer is: Hypothalamus

The General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) is a physiological response to stress that encompasses a series of adaptive responses the body undergoes when exposed to prolonged stressors. The hypothalamus plays a crucial role in this process by integrating the body's response to stress through the autonomic nervous system and endocrine function. Specifically, the hypothalamus is responsible for initiating the stress response by signaling the pituitary gland to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which in turn stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a key stress hormone. This hormonal cascade prepares the body to deal with stressors by regulating metabolism, immune response, and other critical functions. In contrast, the cerebellum primarily coordinates voluntary movements and balance, the cerebrum is involved in higher cognitive functions, and the brainstem regulates basic life functions such as breathing and heart rate. Each of these regions has distinct roles, but they do not directly engage in the complex hormonal and nervous responses associated with the GAS. Therefore, the hypothalamus is the correct answer, as it is the center that initiates the body's response to stress and manages the physiological changes involved in GAS.