Stress Impact Quiz Answer Key

Question 1

Which brain region, often called the “fear center,” becomes highly active during stress?

Correct Answer: Amygdala

Explanation and Reasoning:

• The video describes the amygdala as the primary area responsible for detecting threats and triggering the fight-or-flight response.
• Students should recall that while other regions (like the hippocampus or prefrontal cortex) have important roles (memory formation, decision-making), the amygdala is specifically known for processing fear and emotional responses under stress.

Question 2

What primary stress hormone is released by the adrenal glands when you experience stress?

Correct Answer: Cortisol

Explanation and Reasoning:

• The narrator explains that the adrenal glands secrete cortisol to mobilize energy (increasing blood sugar) and help the body cope with a perceived threat.
• Although adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) plays a role in the immediate fight-or-flight response, cortisol is the key hormone that remains elevated during sustained stress.

Question 3

Chronic stress can lead to which long-term effect on the brain?

Correct Answer: Loss of connections in the hippocampus

Explanation and Reasoning:

• The video highlights that prolonged high levels of cortisol damage neural connections (synapses) in the hippocampus, the region crucial for learning and memory.
• Students should note that chronic stress weakens (rather than strengthens) brain regions involved in memory, and does not promote new neuron growth or increased serotonin in this part of the brain.

Question 4 (Open Response)

Briefly explain how chronic stress differs from acute stress in its impact on the brain.

Model Answer:

• Acute Stress: Short-lived, triggers a rapid release of adrenaline and cortisol, sharpens alertness, and can enhance memory for the stressful event.
• Chronic Stress: Persistent over weeks or months, keeps cortisol levels elevated, leading to structural changes—especially in the hippocampus (loss of synapses), reduced prefrontal cortex function, and impaired memory and decision-making.

Explanation and Reasoning:

• Look for students to describe duration (short vs. prolonged) and contrasting effects: acute can be adaptive, but chronic is damaging.
• Assessment focuses on understanding how ongoing stress hormones change brain structure and function over time.

Question 5 (Open Response)

Name two stress-management strategies mentioned in the video and describe how each helps reduce stress.

Sample Strategies & Explanations:

1. Deep Breathing / Diaphragmatic Breathing
   • Slows heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and activates the parasympathetic (relaxation) response, counteracting the fight-or-flight state.
2. Physical Exercise
   • Releases endorphins (“feel-good” neurotransmitters), reduces excess cortisol, and improves mood and cognitive function.

(Other acceptable strategies include mindfulness/meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, getting adequate sleep, social support, or time in nature.)

Explanation and Reasoning:

• Students should identify two distinct coping methods and connect each to a physiological or psychological benefit described in the lesson (e.g., hormone regulation, improved brain health, emotional balance).

Teacher Notes:

• Use this key to guide grading and to provide feedback.
• For open responses, award full credit when students accurately describe both a valid strategy and its mechanism for reducing stress.
• Encourage reflection: have students share which strategy they might try in their own lives.