Walter Cannon

Definition

Walter Cannon was an American physiologist best known for his work in the early 20th century on the concept of homeostasis and the fight-or-flight response. His theories laid the foundation for understanding how organisms maintain stability in their internal environments while responding to external challenges, linking physiological processes to emotional and behavioral responses in times of stress.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cannon introduced the term 'homeostasis' in 1926 to describe how living organisms regulate their internal environment to maintain stable conditions despite external changes.
2. His research on the fight-or-flight response highlighted the role of the autonomic nervous system and hormones like adrenaline in preparing the body to react to stressors.
3. Cannon's work emphasized the interconnectedness of emotional experiences and physiological responses, showing how stress can trigger specific bodily changes.
4. He conducted pioneering studies on the effects of adrenaline on metabolism and blood circulation, providing insights into how stress affects bodily functions.
5. Cannon's contributions helped bridge the gap between psychology and physiology, influencing fields like neuroendocrinology and behavioral medicine.

Review Questions

• How did Walter Cannon's concept of homeostasis contribute to our understanding of physiological responses during stress?
  • Walter Cannon's concept of homeostasis is crucial because it explains how organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite external stressors. By understanding homeostasis, we can see how the body activates various physiological mechanisms to counteract stress, such as increasing heart rate and altering hormone levels. Cannon’s research helps illustrate that stress not only affects behavior but also triggers specific bodily changes that work towards restoring balance.
• Discuss the significance of the fight-or-flight response as described by Cannon and its implications for both physiology and psychology.
  • Cannon's description of the fight-or-flight response is significant because it highlights how physical and psychological processes are interconnected during moments of stress. This response activates the autonomic nervous system, leading to physiological changes like increased heart rate and energy mobilization. Understanding this response has implications for both physiology in studying bodily reactions to stress, and psychology by showing how emotional states can influence these physical changes.
• Evaluate how Walter Cannon’s work has influenced modern research in neuroendocrinology and the study of motivated behaviors.
  • Walter Cannon's work laid critical groundwork for modern research in neuroendocrinology by demonstrating the link between emotional states and physiological responses. His exploration of homeostasis informs current studies on how hormones regulate both physical and psychological aspects of motivation. Additionally, his insights into stress responses have paved the way for understanding how these mechanisms can influence motivated behaviors in health contexts, such as coping with anxiety or managing chronic stress.

Related terms

Homeostasis:

The process by which biological systems maintain stability while adjusting to changing external conditions.

Fight-or-Flight Response: The body's physiological reaction to perceived harmful events, attacks, or threats, characterized by increased heart rate, adrenaline release, and heightened alertness.

Physiological Psychology: A branch of psychology that studies the relationship between physiological processes and behavior, often focusing on how brain functions affect emotions and actions.