Acute Stress Response - Public Speaking

Acute Stress Response - Public Speaking Increased blood flow to brain; Increased production of catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine) which help to facilitate cognitive performance Reactions - Increased alertness - Increased short term strength - Increased ability to handle stress - Heightened ability to focus - Increased oxygen to the brain - Faster, deeper breathing - Heightened sense of smell Pupils dilate/Peripheral vision is reduced - Body and mind are hyper-alert Heart rate increases Faster, deeper breathing Other Responses - Perspiration increases to cool body - Muscle tension increases to prepare for "fight or flight" - Saliva production decreases - Metabolism speeds up considerably Increased blood flow to large muscle groups Adrenal hormones (cortisol and DHEA) released, resulting in increased energy mobilization - Inflammation increases - Blood flow from skin surface is Digestion slows dramatically diverted to larger muscle groups & brain - Body extremities can change temperature - Blood pressure increases Blood pressure increases © Princeton Public Speaking