The fight-flight-freeze stress response is the biological foundation of many social learning theory presentations. Understanding it demystifies social learning theory and points toward effective interventions.
The Three Stress Responses in Social Learning Theory
Fight: Anger, aggression, irritability — social learning theory channeled outward
Flight: Avoidance, escape, withdrawal — the most common social learning theory behavioral pattern
Freeze: Paralysis, numbness, shutdown — depression and dissociation-type social learning theory
How Chronic Activation Drives Social Learning Theory
When the stress response activates repeatedly or doesn't turn off, it creates the chronic physiological state underlying social learning theory: elevated cortisol, dysregulated neurotransmitters, disrupted sleep.
Working With Your Stress Response in Social Learning Theory
- 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