Which stage of the General Adaptation Syndrome is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and soreness?

• A. Exhaustion stage
• B. Alarm stage
• C. Resistance stage
• D. Recovery stage

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) describes the body's short-term and long-term reactions to stress, consisting of three main stages: Alarm, Resistance, and Exhaustion.
2. Identify the characteristics of each stage: the Alarm stage involves the initial reaction to stress, including the fight-or-flight response; the Resistance stage involves the body attempting to adapt to the ongoing stress; and the Exhaustion stage occurs when the body's resources are depleted.
3. Recognize that symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and soreness indicate that the body's ability to cope with stress is failing, which aligns with the Exhaustion stage.
4. Eliminate other options by matching their typical symptoms: the Alarm stage is marked by immediate stress responses, the Resistance stage by adaptation and coping, and the Recovery stage (not part of the original GAS model) implies return to normal functioning.
5. Conclude that the stage characterized by fatigue, weakness, and soreness is the Exhaustion stage, where prolonged stress has worn down the body's defenses.