Describe cognitive processing during high-stress real-world situations.

During high-stress real-world situations, cognitive processing can become impaired, leading to narrowed attention and reduced working memory capacity.

In high-stress situations, the body's physiological response can significantly impact cognitive processing. The body's stress response, often referred to as the 'fight or flight' response, is designed to help us react quickly to immediate threats. This response involves the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can have a profound effect on the brain and, consequently, cognitive processing.

One of the most noticeable effects of stress on cognitive processing is a narrowing of attention. This is often referred to as 'tunnel vision', where the individual becomes hyper-focused on the perceived threat to the exclusion of other information. This can be beneficial in situations where a quick response to a specific threat is required. However, it can also lead to errors in judgement as important contextual or peripheral information is overlooked.

Stress can also impact working memory capacity, which is the ability to hold and manipulate information in the mind over short periods. High levels of stress can reduce working memory capacity, making it more difficult to process complex information or make decisions. This can lead to a reliance on simpler, more automatic responses, which may not always be the most appropriate or effective in a given situation.

Furthermore, stress can affect cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to adapt and switch between tasks or thoughts. Under stress, individuals may find it harder to disengage from a particular thought or action, leading to rigid thinking and behaviour. This can be problematic in situations that require a flexible approach or creative problem-solving.

Finally, it's worth noting that the impact of stress on cognitive processing can vary between individuals and depends on a range of factors, including the nature and intensity of the stressor, the individual's perception of the stressor, and their coping resources and strategies. Some individuals may be more resilient to the effects of stress, or may even thrive under certain levels of stress, demonstrating enhanced cognitive performance. This is known as 'stress inoculation', where exposure to manageable levels of stress can build resilience and improve performance under future stress.