The “4 F’s” refer to the four main survival responses the brain and body activate when facing real or perceived threat, especially in people with PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder). These automatic reactions are: Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn.

1. Fight – An aggressive response where the person confronts the threat head-on. In PTSD, this can show up as anger outbursts, irritability, or verbally/physically lashing out when triggered.
2. Flight – The classic “escape” response. Individuals may try to avoid people, places, conversations, or anything that reminds them of the trauma. Hypervigilance and the urge to flee situations are common.
3. Freeze – A state of shutdown where the person feels paralyzed, dissociated, or “stuck.” They might go numb, feel detached from their body, or be unable to speak/move during triggers. This is the brain’s attempt to protect itself when fight or flight isn’t possible.
4. Fawn – A less commonly discussed but very real response, especially in complex PTSD (C-PTSD) from prolonged interpersonal trauma. The person tries to appease or “people-please” the perceived threat to stay safe. This can look like excessive apologizing, codependency, or losing personal boundaries.

These four trauma responses (fight, flight, freeze, fawn) originate from the nervous system’s attempt to survive danger. In PTSD, everyday situations can mistakenly activate the same intense reactions because the brain remains in survival mode long after the original trauma.

Understanding the 4 F’s helps both survivors and loved ones recognize that these behaviors aren’t “overreactions” – they are hardwired protective mechanisms. Therapies like EMDR, somatic experiencing, and trauma-focused CBT can help regulate the nervous system and reduce these automatic responses over time.

Knowing your dominant trauma response (fight, flight, freeze, or fawn) is a powerful first step toward healing PTSD and reclaiming safety in your body and relationships.