The fight-flight-freeze stress response is the biological foundation of many locus of control presentations. Understanding it demystifies locus of control and points toward effective interventions.
The Three Stress Responses in Locus of Control
Fight: Anger, aggression, irritability — locus of control channeled outward
Flight: Avoidance, escape, withdrawal — the most common locus of control behavioral pattern
Freeze: Paralysis, numbness, shutdown — depression and dissociation-type locus of control
How Chronic Activation Drives Locus of Control
When the stress response activates repeatedly or doesn't turn off, it creates the chronic physiological state underlying locus of control: elevated cortisol, dysregulated neurotransmitters, disrupted sleep.
Working With Your Stress Response in Locus of Control
- Name it: 'My nervous system is in fight/flight/freeze right now'
- Move: Physical movement discharges the mobilization energy of fight/flight
- Breathe: Activates the off-switch for the stress response
- Connect: Safe social engagement signals to the nervous system that the threat has passed