Heroism or Flight: How Trauma Shapes Our Response to Crisis
When a violent attack on train passengers in Cambridgeshire shook the nation last weekend, many were left wondering: would they be brave enough to intervene, or would they flee? The question is complex, influenced by our individual experiences, personalities, and backgrounds. As Emma Kavanagh, a psychologist who worked for years with law enforcement and military personnel, explains, running away doesn't necessarily equate to cowardice.
In emergency situations, the body's natural responses can be primal – fight or flight – but these instincts are not the only drivers at play. Our social nature prompts us to "tend and befriend," as Kavanagh puts it. In crisis situations, we're more likely to seek out others in need than confront danger head-on. This instinctual response is rooted in our need for human connection and survival.
So, what fosters heroism? Having a pre-existing schema of behavior that includes helping others can play a significant role. Our experiences, too, shape our responses. Those who have survived previous traumatic events may find it easier to cope with the aftermath, as their brains develop new coping mechanisms. Moreover, people who identify strongly as "do-gooders" are more likely to help in crisis situations.
It's essential to acknowledge that trauma can be devastating and leave lasting scars. The initial stress response can be overwhelming, but with time, these feelings typically subside, replaced by a sense of resilience and post-traumatic growth. Survivors often report emerging stronger and more compassionate individuals, their experiences woven into the fabric of their identity.
As we navigate our own crisis situations, it's crucial to recognize that heroism is not an all-or-nothing proposition. We may not always be the ones charging into danger; sometimes, running away is the rational choice. However, with a supportive network and the right mindset, even the most ordinary person can become a heroic figure in their own way – by lending a helping hand to those in need.
Whether we're drawn to heroism or flee from danger, our response will depend on a complex interplay of factors. But one thing is certain: the human capacity for resilience and compassion will ultimately prevail.
When a violent attack on train passengers in Cambridgeshire shook the nation last weekend, many were left wondering: would they be brave enough to intervene, or would they flee? The question is complex, influenced by our individual experiences, personalities, and backgrounds. As Emma Kavanagh, a psychologist who worked for years with law enforcement and military personnel, explains, running away doesn't necessarily equate to cowardice.
In emergency situations, the body's natural responses can be primal – fight or flight – but these instincts are not the only drivers at play. Our social nature prompts us to "tend and befriend," as Kavanagh puts it. In crisis situations, we're more likely to seek out others in need than confront danger head-on. This instinctual response is rooted in our need for human connection and survival.
So, what fosters heroism? Having a pre-existing schema of behavior that includes helping others can play a significant role. Our experiences, too, shape our responses. Those who have survived previous traumatic events may find it easier to cope with the aftermath, as their brains develop new coping mechanisms. Moreover, people who identify strongly as "do-gooders" are more likely to help in crisis situations.
It's essential to acknowledge that trauma can be devastating and leave lasting scars. The initial stress response can be overwhelming, but with time, these feelings typically subside, replaced by a sense of resilience and post-traumatic growth. Survivors often report emerging stronger and more compassionate individuals, their experiences woven into the fabric of their identity.
As we navigate our own crisis situations, it's crucial to recognize that heroism is not an all-or-nothing proposition. We may not always be the ones charging into danger; sometimes, running away is the rational choice. However, with a supportive network and the right mindset, even the most ordinary person can become a heroic figure in their own way – by lending a helping hand to those in need.
Whether we're drawn to heroism or flee from danger, our response will depend on a complex interplay of factors. But one thing is certain: the human capacity for resilience and compassion will ultimately prevail.
I mean, have you seen that video of people standing up for each other after that train attack in Cambridgeshire? 
It's like they knew exactly what to do. But honestly, I think it's because most of us are just trying to get through our own trauma without losing our minds 
. Like, I've had my share of bad days too, and the thought of rushing into danger is way more terrifying than helping someone else. It's not that we're cowards; it's just that sometimes you gotta take care of yourself first 
. And can we talk about how amazing it is when people come together to support each other after a traumatic event? 
It's like they say, trauma shapes our response, but it also shapes us into stronger, more compassionate humans 
.
. Like, can we just give it up for the real heroes? I mean, what if they were in our shoes, faced with some crazy stuff and still managed to put others first? That takes so much more courage than facing the attacker head-on, you know? Plus, it's not like they're ignoring their own trauma – they're acknowledging it and choosing to cope with it by helping others. That's what I call resilience 
just read about how trauma can shape our response to crisis... like I was at that train attack in Cambridgeshire 
and people were literally running away but also helping others at the same time... it's all about the mindset and experiences 
trauma can be super debilitating and it's okay to not be able to handle a situation right away. sometimes running away is literally the best thing to do, especially if you're faced with physical danger 
and we need to stop putting so much pressure on people to be 'brave' all the time 
i mean, what's brave about putting yourself in harm's way when there are other options? 
I mean, what's up with these articles that are like 10 pages long? Can't we just get to the point already? Anyway, trauma shaping our response to crisis... yeah, no kidding. It's not like we've been taught from a young age to put others before ourselves or anything. 
Like, trauma is super hard to deal with, but that doesn't mean you're not a hero for seeking help and taking care of yourself after something happens. And btw, what's up with the whole "heroism" thing? Can't just be human and try to help others without expecting a medal or something?