What is a weakness of the fight-or-flight response when activated repeatedly?

• A. Improved digestion
• B. Prolonged high blood pressure can cause cardiovascular problems
• C. Lower energy and readiness for action
• D. Better stress management

Answer: (B)

Repeated activation of the fight-or-flight response keeps the body in a state of heightened arousal, driven by the sympathetic nervous system to deal with danger. This sustained arousal raises heart rate and blood pressure, placing ongoing strain on the cardiovascular system. Over time, prolonged high blood pressure increases the risk of cardiovascular problems such as hypertension and heart disease, making it the key weakness when this response is triggered repeatedly.

Digestive processes are actually reduced during stress, so improved digestion isn’t a consequence of frequent activation. The state also boosts energy and readiness rather than lowering them, and it doesn’t improve one's ability to manage stress; chronic activation tends to harm stress management rather than help it.