The parachute jump study helped researchers to refine their views on the stress response. What did we learn from this study?
A. That acute stressors lead to immediate suppression of immune function.
B. That acute stressors do the same thing to your immune system that chronic stressors do.
C. That acute stressors lead to immediate activation of immune function.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is C. That acute stressors lead to immediate activation of immune function.
The parachute jump study, conducted by researchers to understand the physiological responses to acute stress, showed that the body’s immune system reacts in a specific way to short-term stress. During this study, participants were asked to take part in a stressful experience (such as a parachute jump), and their immune function was monitored. The researchers observed that when individuals were exposed to this acute stressor, their immune system’s immediate response was activation rather than suppression.
This activation of immune function is thought to be part of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, a natural physiological reaction to stressful situations. Acute stress triggers the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare the body for quick action. This reaction enhances the body’s ability to fight infection or injury in the short term by boosting the activity of immune cells such as white blood cells.
In contrast, chronic stress can lead to the opposite effect. Prolonged stress, such as from ongoing work pressure or personal issues, can result in the suppression of the immune system. Over time, chronic stress can lower the body’s ability to fight off infections and could make the body more susceptible to illness.
Therefore, the parachute jump study revealed that the immune system’s immediate response to acute stress is an activation phase, which helps the body prepare to deal with the stressor. This immediate response is different from the long-term effects of chronic stress, which can suppress immune function over time.