Select ALL the following factors that can contribute to psychological fatigue
A. Impaired initiation or propagation of action potentials at the sarcolemma
B. Loss of motivation
C. Dysfunctional calcium release and reuptake
D. Altered excitability of motor neurons
E. Depletion of ATP and other energy sources
F. Accumulation of metabolic byproducts
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answers are B. Loss of motivation, D. Altered excitability of motor neurons, and F. Accumulation of metabolic byproducts.
Explanation:
Psychological fatigue occurs when the brain or nervous system experiences reduced efficiency in processing tasks, which can result from both mental and physical factors. Here’s how each relevant factor contributes:
- B. Loss of motivation: This is a key psychological factor contributing to fatigue. When motivation decreases, the individual may struggle to initiate or continue activities, leading to feelings of fatigue or exhaustion. Loss of motivation can stem from mental exhaustion, lack of interest, or even burnout, which can significantly impact the psychological state and cause fatigue.
- D. Altered excitability of motor neurons: While this is more directly related to neurological fatigue, it still plays a role in psychological fatigue. If the motor neurons become less responsive or exhibit altered excitability, it can result in impaired muscle function, which indirectly contributes to feelings of fatigue and lethargy. This can reduce an individual’s ability to engage in physical or mental activities, leading to a feeling of overall tiredness or exhaustion.
- F. Accumulation of metabolic byproducts: When muscles work intensely, byproducts like lactic acid accumulate. While this primarily affects physical fatigue, the resulting discomfort can contribute to a reduced mental state, causing the person to feel mentally exhausted as well. The discomfort associated with metabolic buildup can impair concentration and cognitive function, leading to psychological fatigue.
The other factors listed:
- A. Impaired initiation or propagation of action potentials at the sarcolemma and C. Dysfunctional calcium release and reuptake are more related to muscle fatigue and physical performance rather than psychological fatigue.
- E. Depletion of ATP and other energy sources can affect physical stamina but does not directly address the cognitive or emotional aspects of psychological fatigue.
Psychological fatigue primarily arises from factors that affect mental and emotional processes rather than the direct physical limitations of the body.