What physical response may occur when the body is overloaded with stress?

When the body is overloaded with stress, the "freeze" response is one of the common physical reactions that can occur. This is part of the body's natural fight-or-flight response, which prepares an individual to either confront or escape a threat. In situations of extreme stress, rather than taking action, a person may become immobile or "freeze," as an instinctual response. This can be due to feeling overwhelmed by the situation, leading to a moment of paralysis or hesitation.

The freeze response is particularly noticeable in situations where the perceived threat is too great to confront, prompting a temporary shutdown of action. It serves as a way for the body to assess the situation without making any sudden moves that might escalate danger.

The other options, while related to stress, do not capture the "freeze" response as effectively. Increased heart rate is a physiological reaction that signifies the body preparing for action but does not reflect the immobilization aspect associated with the freeze response. Memory loss can also occur under stress due to cognitive overload, but it does not represent the immediate bodily reaction as the freeze does. Overactive movement typically signifies agitation or anxiety rather than the immobilization that characterizes the freeze response.