LESSON 3
The Four Survival Responses
When the nervous system perceives threat, it automatically moves into protective strategies.
These responses developed to help humans survive danger.
Fight
Attempting to control or confront the threat.
Common modern expressions:
anger
irritability
defensiveness
controlling behavior
Flight
Attempting to escape or outrun the threat.
Modern expressions:
overworking
perfectionism
constant productivity
inability to slow down
Freeze
The body shuts down to conserve energy.
Modern expressions:
procrastination
numbness
avoidance
difficulty making decisions
Fawn
Appeasing others to reduce conflict.
Modern expressions:
people pleasing
difficulty setting boundaries
prioritizing others’ comfort over your own
Important note:
Everyone uses these responses at times.
The goal is not eliminating them.
The goal is recognizing them.
