Fight or Flight (CYP)
The Fight Or Flight (CYP) information handout has been specifically designed for younger children and includes carefully simplified language. The professional and client versions contain variations on the worksheet including a version which explains why these reactions occur, and a version which invites individuals to describe their bodily reactions to frightening events.
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Professional version
Offers theory, guidance, and prompts for mental health professionals. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Client version
Includes client-friendly guidance. Downloads are in Fillable PDF format where appropriate.
Editable version (PPT)
An editable Microsoft PowerPoint version of the resource.
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Introduction & Theoretical Background
The fight or flight response is an automatic set of physiological and cognitive changes that are designed to aid survival in situations perceived as dangerous or threatening. It is extremely helpful for clients to understand the fight or flight response prior to engaging in exposure work for anxiety. Schauer & Elbert (2010) have described an elaborated account of these reactions as applied to trauma, but discussion limited to the fight or flight stages is often sufficient when working with anxious clients. The Fight Or Flight (CYP) information handout has been specifically designed for younger children and includes carefully simplified language. The professional and client versions contain variations on the worksheet including a version which explains why these reactions occur, and a version which invites individuals to describe their bodily reactions to frightening events.
Information that is helpful for clinicians to be able to share is why particular bodily reactions are
Therapist Guidance
This handout can be used to stimulate a discussion between therapist and client. It is available in multiple versions, some with more information ‘up front’ and others which leave more space for exploration of the client’s experiences. Helpful prompts for discussion include:
- “Do you ever feel any of these feelings?”
- “What situations do you notice them in?”
- “What sets them off”?
- “What do you think about these body feelings?”
- “When you notice these sensations what do you think they mean?”
- “What does it say about you that you experience these sensations?”
- “When you feel scared or anxious what feelings do you notice in your body?”
- “When you feel scared or anxious what do you notice in your mind?”
- “What do you think about?”
- “What do you notice and focus on?”
Therapists should aim to help clients to understand why these reactions occur. Therapists will need to adapt their
References And Further Reading
- Cannon, W. B. (1916). Bodily changes in pain, hunger, fear, and rage: An account of recent researches into the function of emotional excitement. D. Appleton.
- Schauer, M., & Elbert, T. (2010). Dissociation following traumatic stress. Journal of Psychology, 218, 109-127.