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Cognitive Function under Stress

Meaning

Cognitive function under stress refers to the capacity of the brain to maintain executive processes—such as attention, working memory, decision-making, and inhibitory control—when the body is subjected to acute or chronic psychological or physiological stressors. The quality of this function is a direct measure of the brain’s resilience against the disruptive effects of elevated stress hormones, particularly cortisol and norepinephrine. Optimal hormonal signaling is paramount for preserving neural efficiency during periods of high demand.