TTC Neurobiological Effects of Trauma 2

Question 1

Which hormone is primarily responsible for the sustained stress response following acute trauma exposure?

Accepted Answer

Cortisol

Answer

Cortisol, released by the adrenal cortex via HPA axis activation, sustains the physiological stress response after trauma.

Question 2

What is the primary function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in trauma response?

Accepted Answer

Coordinate hormonal stress response

Answer

The HPA axis coordinates the hormonal stress response by triggering cortisol release to mobilize energy and modulate immune function.

Question 3

Chronic trauma exposure leads to which HPA axis dysregulation pattern most commonly seen in PTSD?

Accepted Answer

Hypocortisolism with enhanced negative feedback

Answer

PTSD is typically associated with hypocortisolism and enhanced negative feedback sensitivity of the HPA axis.

Question 4

Which neurotransmitter system is most directly implicated in the hyperarousal symptoms of trauma survivors?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Answer

Norepinephrine dysregulation is central to PTSD hyperarousal, driving heightened alertness, startle responses, and sleep disturbance.

Question 5

The corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is secreted by which structure to initiate the stress cascade?

Accepted Answer

Hypothalamus

Answer

The hypothalamus secretes CRF, which signals the anterior pituitary to release ACTH, beginning the HPA axis cascade.

(TTC) Trauma Treatment Certification Practice Test