Does anyone else do this?
redTree7626
May 27th, 2025
I am incredibly conflict-averse. I feel uncomfortable and trapped when I get into an argument or difficult conversation- especially when it's with someone I care about. Instead of engaging in the conversation or trying to resolve the issue I usually apologize repeatedly or acknowledge the other person's feelings while trying to speak as little as possible and end the argument as fast as I can. This was the way I grew up handling conflict in my family, and since both of my siblings did it as well I never saw it as an abnormal response. Does anyone else do this during conflicts? If you have any suggestions for how to change my response please let me know!
jesusredeemedme2425
May 28th, 2025
@redTree7626
I do this, too. We both use the flight and fawn responses.
From AI:
Fight, flight, freeze, and fawn are survival responses to perceived threats. Fight involves confronting the threat, flight involves escaping it, freeze involves becoming immobile, and fawn involves appeasing the threat. These responses are triggered by the autonomic nervous system to ensure survival in dangerous situations.
Here's a more detailed explanation of each response:
- Fight:This involves physically or verbally confronting the threat. It's a direct response, often seen in situations where there's a clear opportunity to defend oneself or others.
Flight:
This involves escaping the threatening situation, often by running, hiding, or distancing oneself from the danger.
Freeze:
This response is characterized by a complete immobilization, often accompanied by feeling paralyzed or unable to act. It's a way of minimizing perceived danger, sometimes seen in situations where the threat is overwhelming.
Fawn:
This is a more recent addition to the trauma responses. It involves trying to appease or placate the threat to avoid harm. This can involve people-pleasing, being overly accommodating, or sacrificing one's own needs to maintain safety.
