Final answer:
The physiological changes that occur during the stress response (fight or flight) due to emotions like anger and fear include the release of adrenaline and cortisol, an increase in heart rate and alertness, and other preparatory changes for a 'fight or flight' reaction. The correct answer to the question is C) Release of adrenaline and cortisol.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we experience primitive primary emotions like anger and fear, which trigger the stress response (also known as fight or flight), several physiological changes occur in the body. The correct response to what happens physiologically when this occurs is: C) Release of adrenaline and cortisol. The sympathetic nervous system is activated, resulting in an increase in heart rate, dilation of the pupils, sweating, and an increase in blood glucose levels to provide energy. Alongside, the adrenal glands release adrenaline and cortisol, which further prepare the body to either confront or escape from a perceived threat.
The fight-or-flight response includes the activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This response leads to elevated heart rate and breathing, increased alertness, and changes in muscle readiness, among other physiological changes designed to improve the body’s ability to respond to stress. Option A), B), and D) are incorrect as they describe effects associated with the parasympathetic nervous system, which actually counteracts the fight-or-flight response promoting relaxation and recovery after a stressful event.