Fight Or Flight Response
The fight or flight response is an automatic physiological reaction to an event that is perceived as stressful or frightening. The perception of threat activates the sympathetic nervous system and triggers an acute stress response that prepares the body to fight or flee. These responses are evolutionary adaptations to increase chances of survival in threatening situations. Overly frequent, intense, or inappropriate activation of the fight or flight response is implicated in a range of clinical conditions including most anxiety disorders. A helpful part of treatment for anxiety is an improved understanding of the purpose and function of the fight or flight response. This client information sheet describes the bodily consequences of the fight or flight response.
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Introduction & Theoretical Background
The fight or flight reaction is associated with activation of the sympathetic nervous system. The chain reaction brought about by the fight or flight response can result in the following physical effects:
- Heart: Increased heart rate; Dilation of coronary blood vessels; Increase in blood flow Increased availability of oxygen and energy to the heart.
- Circulation: Dilation of blood vessels serving muscles; Constriction of blood vessels serving digestion; Increased availability of oxygen to skeletal muscles; Blood shunted to skeletal muscles and brain.
- Lungs: Dilation of bronchi; Increased respiration rate; Increased availability of oxygen in blood.
- Liver: Increased conversion of glycogen to glucose; Increased availability of glucose in skeletal muscle and brain cells.
- Skin: Skin becomes pale or flushed as blood flow is reduced; Increased blood flow to muscles and away from non-essential parts of the body such as the periphery.
- Eyes: Dilation of the pupils; Allows in more light
Therapist Guidance
This is a Psychology Tools information handout. Suggested uses include:
- Client handout - use as a psychoeducation resource
- Discussion point - use to provoke a discussion and explore client beliefs
- Therapist learning tool - improve your familiarity with a psychological construct
- Teaching resource - use as a learning tool during training
References And Further Reading
- Cannon, W. B. (1915). Bodily changes in pain, hunger, fear, and rage. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts.
- Schauer, M., & Elbert, T. (2010). Dissociation following traumatic stress. Journal of Psychology, 218, 109-127.