Penn Foster Anatomy and Physiology for Vet Technicians Practice Test

The sympathetic nervous stimulation is the correct mechanism responsible for the release of adrenal hormones during a fight-or-flight response. When an animal, such as a startled mouse, perceives a threat, the sympathetic nervous system is activated. This system prepares the body to respond to stress or danger by initiating a series of physiological changes.

During this response, the adrenal glands are stimulated, particularly the adrenal medulla, which releases catecholamines such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine) into the bloodstream. These hormones lead to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, dilation of air passages, and redistribution of blood to essential muscles, preparing the body for rapid action.

The other mechanisms mentioned do not primarily or directly cause the formulation of this immediate fight-or-flight response. For instance, parasympathetic stimulation typically promotes rest and digestion, while central nervous coordination refers to the integrative functions of the nervous system, which do not drive the immediate release of hormones in acute stress scenarios. Additionally, while cerebral cortex activation may involve processing the perceived threat, it is the sympathetic response that drives the adrenal secretion crucial for a fight-or-flight reaction.