Presentation

Primal Responses to Threat
Freeze- response observed in animals, accompanied by
slowed and shut down metabolism. Attempt to remain
safe and invisible, dissociative, paralyzed ----actually
makes the survivor vulnerable. Dissociative response
reinforces helplessness in each new situation.
Flail- Perceived as aggression, but physical movement, such
as flailing of the arms, is meant to create a safe space
around the body rather than connect with a target. As
when lizards, birds or fish puff up or fan out to keep
aggressors from closing in.
Shield- Protective, like flailing, shielding and raising hands
over head and body, physiologically prepared for injury.
Shielding in response to noises or non-violent conflict.