Fight or Flight Response
Definition
This is an automatic physiological reaction to an event perceived as stressful or frightening. The body prepares itself either for combat (fight) or escape (flight).
Analogy
Consider fight-or-flight response like your body's personal security system. When it senses danger (like an intruder), it sets off alarms (stress responses) preparing you either for battle (fight) or evacuation (flight).
Related terms
Sympathetic Nervous System: The part of the autonomic nervous system that activates the body's energy resources to deal with threatening situations.
Adrenaline: A hormone released into the bloodstream in response to physical or mental stress.
Homeostasis: The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment, despite changes in external conditions.
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