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Physiological Arousal

Meaning

Physiological Arousal refers to the state of heightened responsiveness of the central and autonomic nervous systems, characterized by a constellation of measurable bodily changes in response to a stimulus, such as stress, novelty, or sexual excitement. This state involves increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, heightened muscle tension, and altered endocrine secretion, mediated by the sympathetic nervous system and the HPA axis. It is a fundamental biological state necessary for adaptation, performance, and survival, directly influencing hormonal release, particularly catecholamines and cortisol.