Fight, Flight, Freeze - School Psychologist Pathway [Watch and Reflect]

CA MTSS logo Exposure to Trauma

Exposure to trauma also affects the brain state of students and youth.  This video identifies the difference between the survival brain state and learning brain state.

 

This following chart identifies what fight, flight, freeze might look like in the classroom:

Flight Fight Freeze
Withdrawing
Fleeing the classroom
Skipping class
Daydreaming
Seeming to sleep
Avoiding others
Hiding or wandering
Becoming disengaged		 Acting out
Behaving aggressively
Acting silly
Exhibiting defiance
Being hyperactive
Arguing
Screaming/yelling		 Exhibiting numbness
Refusing to answer
Refusing to get needs met
Giving a blank look
Feeling unable to move or act

Source: ASCD

lightbulbReflect

Respond to the following:

  • According to the video, which brain always takes emphasis? 
  • How can educators help students stay within the learning brain?