Posts Tagged ‘fight-or-flight’
Seeing Red out of the Blue
We like to believe that we are in control of our actions, but sometimes we are not. A sudden incident can overtake conscious will and launch us into violent action that risks our life and limb in an instant. I know, because it happened to me. I am a neuroscientist, and after witnessing…
Read MoreTo Flee or Freeze? Neural Circuits of Threat Detection Identified
Suddenly something streaks into your peripheral vision. Instantly, you jump back and raise your arms defensively. “What was that!” You exclaim in shock. Only then do you realize that the blurred streak you just dodged was a wayward basketball zinging like a missile on a collision course for your face. A rush of adrenaline flushes…
Read MoreThe Kathmandu earthquake will alter brain structure of survivors
Studies of people who have survived earthquakes and other traumatic events can provide important insights into the effect of stress on human brain structure.
Read More