Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Resistance refers to the second stage in the general adaptation syndrome (GAS) theory of stress. During this stage, the body tries to adapt and cope with the ongoing stressor by activating various physiological systems.
This term describes the first stage in GAS theory when your body initially detects and responds to a stressful situation, like a superhero's alarm going off when danger approaches.
The final stage in GAS theory where ongoing exposure to stress leads to physical and mental exhaustion, just like a superhero becoming tired after fighting non-stop for too long.