General Adaptation Syndrome weakens the immune system during stress, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses like colds, especially when transitioning from high stress to relaxation. Type A personalities with high competitiveness can intensify stress levels, affecting the immune system's ability to combat infections.
General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS) can best explain the scenario where the student falls ill with a common cold after a period of high stress during final exams and then relaxation during the holiday break. GAS consists of stages: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion, which can weaken the immune system when exposed to prolonged stress, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses like colds.
Stress during final exams can lead to a compromised immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to illnesses due to the body not functioning optimally. This aligns with the finding that high stress levels can increase the likelihood of developing a cold, as seen in the study showing the relationship between stress and susceptibility to the virus.
Individual differences in stress responses, such as Type A personalities with high levels of speed/impatience and competitiveness, can also contribute to increased stress levels, further impacting the immune system's ability to fight off infections during stressful periods.
https://brainly.com/question/51400910