Caught Up in a Violent Attack: Will You Be a Hero or Run?
Imagine being on a train with fellow passengers when an attacker comes out of nowhere. Would you rush to help, or would you flee for your life? For many of us, the answer is not as simple as it seems.
Research suggests that humans are wired to respond in different ways during emergencies. On one hand, some people imagine themselves as heroes, ready to face danger head-on and protect others. Others anticipate flight, wanting to get away from harm as quickly as possible. But what if those instincts don't kick in when we need them most?
According to Emma Kavanagh, a psychologist who worked with the police and military, our response to emergencies is influenced by a complex mix of factors, including our past experiences, mental schema, and emotional state. When we're in a life-threatening situation, our brain's "fight or flight" response kicks in, but that's not the only script playing out.
One crucial aspect of responding to emergencies is recognizing that running away doesn't make us cowards. In fact, removing ourselves from danger can be a rational decision that allows us to reassess and respond in a more constructive way. However, this initial flight response often gives way to our "tend and befriend" drive – the urge to care for those around us who are hurt or in need.
The critical question is: what turns someone into a helper? According to Kavanagh, it's not just about having had experience with emergencies; it's also about how we identify ourselves as good people. When we live our lives with purpose and kindness, we're more likely to respond with compassion when faced with crisis.
In the aftermath of traumatic events, survivors often face a tough road to recovery. It's natural for emotions to run high, from pain and anger to guilt and shame. But what's remarkable is how many people can find a way to rebuild, heal, and even grow in the long term.
The truth is that no one is immune to trauma or its aftermath. Yet, with support, care, and self-compassion, many survivors are able to transform their experiences into sources of strength and resilience. As Kavanagh notes, "Being permanently scarred is far from a given." By acknowledging our own vulnerability and working to heal, we can become stronger versions of ourselves.
So, what's the takeaway? When faced with emergencies or traumatic events, remember that your response is not defined by a preconceived notion of heroism. Instead, listen to your instincts, acknowledge your emotions, and reach out for help when you need it. You might find that, in the end, being human – and showing compassion to others – is what truly makes us heroes.
Imagine being on a train with fellow passengers when an attacker comes out of nowhere. Would you rush to help, or would you flee for your life? For many of us, the answer is not as simple as it seems.
Research suggests that humans are wired to respond in different ways during emergencies. On one hand, some people imagine themselves as heroes, ready to face danger head-on and protect others. Others anticipate flight, wanting to get away from harm as quickly as possible. But what if those instincts don't kick in when we need them most?
According to Emma Kavanagh, a psychologist who worked with the police and military, our response to emergencies is influenced by a complex mix of factors, including our past experiences, mental schema, and emotional state. When we're in a life-threatening situation, our brain's "fight or flight" response kicks in, but that's not the only script playing out.
One crucial aspect of responding to emergencies is recognizing that running away doesn't make us cowards. In fact, removing ourselves from danger can be a rational decision that allows us to reassess and respond in a more constructive way. However, this initial flight response often gives way to our "tend and befriend" drive – the urge to care for those around us who are hurt or in need.
The critical question is: what turns someone into a helper? According to Kavanagh, it's not just about having had experience with emergencies; it's also about how we identify ourselves as good people. When we live our lives with purpose and kindness, we're more likely to respond with compassion when faced with crisis.
In the aftermath of traumatic events, survivors often face a tough road to recovery. It's natural for emotions to run high, from pain and anger to guilt and shame. But what's remarkable is how many people can find a way to rebuild, heal, and even grow in the long term.
The truth is that no one is immune to trauma or its aftermath. Yet, with support, care, and self-compassion, many survivors are able to transform their experiences into sources of strength and resilience. As Kavanagh notes, "Being permanently scarred is far from a given." By acknowledging our own vulnerability and working to heal, we can become stronger versions of ourselves.
So, what's the takeaway? When faced with emergencies or traumatic events, remember that your response is not defined by a preconceived notion of heroism. Instead, listen to your instincts, acknowledge your emotions, and reach out for help when you need it. You might find that, in the end, being human – and showing compassion to others – is what truly makes us heroes.
, I totally get why people are either gonna rush into action or high-tail it outta there during an emergency situation 
. It's wild how our brains can go all over the place in those split-second moments, you know? 
But what really got me thinking is that being a hero isn't always about charging headfirst into danger; sometimes it's just about getting yourself to safety so you can help others later on 
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. And honestly, being willing to admit that your instincts aren't always right is super important 
. We need to recognize that trauma can affect anyone, regardless of how brave or strong they seem 
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. It's all about self-compassion and being kind to ourselves, you know? We need to stop beating ourselves up over what we could've done differently and focus on becoming the best versions of ourselves 
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. But what if that's not really how most people would react in an emergency? 
I mean, research says our brains are wired differently and it's all about past experiences, emotions, and mental state 
. Sometimes running away can be the rational decision to get out of harm's way 
. It's only when we take a step back that we're like "oh wait, I need to help this person" 
. And it's not just about having experience either, it's about how we identify ourselves as good people 
.
And what about those who "run away"? Are they really cowards or are they just being practical? I mean, think about it... sometimes you gotta take care of yourself before you can help others. But the article says that if you live your life with purpose and kindness, you'll be more likely to respond with compassion when faced with crisis. That sounds like a pretty convenient narrative to me... 
We all have our own personal experiences and emotional state that affects how we react in those situations 
We all need support and care to heal and grow from these experiences 
. But honestly, I think its really important for us to recognize that running away doesn't mean ur a coward. Like, sometimes its just the right thing 2 do so u can come back with a clear head & figure out whats next 
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. Some ppl think they'll be brave & save everyone, but really they're just lucky or adrenaline-fueled 
. I mean, it's cool to wanna help, but let's not forget that sometimes running away is a better option 
. It's all about perspective – what makes u want 2 stand up 4 others vs flee? 
Like, no one expects ppl 2 be superheroes 24/7 
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. When we prioritize our own well-being & work on healin', we become way stronger & more resilient 
just read this article about people's reactions during emergency situations and I'm thinking... we're all so wired differently 
but honestly, it's not that simple 
and then afterwards, who knows? might turn into a hero or not 
[www psychologytoday.com/us/blog/emotional-intelligence/202209/the-brain-and-heroes-what-makes-you-help-in-emergency-situations](http://www.psychologystoday.com/us/blog/emotional-intelligence/202209/the-brain-and-heroes-what-makes-you-help-in-emergency-situations) 
. Like, I get it, some ppl are natural helpers but what about those of us who are just trying to survive? We can't always be expected to save the day without being asked first 
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, we used to play this game called "Rescue Mission" 
, and it was all about being brave and saving people. But now that I'm older 
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. Some people might be more likely to help because they've been conditioned to do so 
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... and that we're not too proud to ask for help when we need it 
Anyway, I do think that when we're feeling really vulnerable and scared, it's okay to not know what to do. Maybe the best thing is just to ask for help and take care of ourselves first. 
then when I can, I try to help others out. dont get me wrong, i wish more ppl would just jump in & save the day but realistically thats not always possible. what matters most is how we respond 2 ourselves & each other after a traumatic event