What are possible reactions to a life-threatening encounter?

In a life-threatening encounter, individuals often respond through instinctive reactions that have evolved as survival mechanisms. The options of fight, flight, or freeze are well-documented psychological responses to perceived danger.

The "fight" response involves confronting the threat, either to eliminate it or protect oneself. The "flight" response drives an individual to escape from the threat, prioritizing safety and avoidance of confrontation. The "freeze" response can occur when a person becomes paralyzed with fear, temporarily immobilized and unable to move or respond immediately.

These responses are rooted in the body's physiological reactions to stress and danger, which prepare an individual for rapid decision-making in high-pressure situations. The clarity of these instinctual reactions makes them the most relevant in addressing potential life-threatening circumstances. Understanding this triad aids in recognizing human behavior under stress, which is crucial for peace officers during high-stakes incidents.