What term describes the body's response to high-stress situations under the control of the sympathetic nervous system?

The body's response to high-stress situations, particularly under the influence of the sympathetic nervous system, is known as the fight or flight response. This term defines the physiological changes that occur in the body when faced with a perceived threat or stressful situation. When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, it prepares the body for immediate action by increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and redirecting blood flow to the muscles. This ensures that an individual has the energy and capability to either confront the danger (fight) or escape from it (flight).

During this response, various hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, are released, further enhancing the body’s readiness to respond to a crisis. The fight or flight response is crucial for survival in dangerous situations, allowing organisms to react quickly and effectively. Other terms listed, such as relaxation response or calm state, refer to the body's state when not under stress, while homeostasis pertains to the balance of physiological processes when the body is functioning normally. These concepts contrast with the heightened state of readiness characterized by the fight or flight response.