What is the fight or flight response?

The fight or flight response is fundamentally recognized as the body's immediate reaction to a stressful situation. When an individual perceives a threat, the brain initiates a cascade of physiological changes that prepare the body to confront or flee from the danger. This includes the release of adrenaline, increased heart rate, heightened senses, and redirecting blood flow to major muscle groups, enabling quick physical action.

The response is rooted in our evolutionary biology, serving as a survival mechanism to ensure our ability to react swiftly to threats in our environment. This reaction can occur in a variety of stress-inducing situations, not limited to physical threats, but also psychological stressors. Understanding this response is crucial for correctional and probation officers as they often work in high-stress environments where awareness of their own and others' physiological reactions can lead to better management of potentially volatile situations.