How the four F's manifest in relationship dynamics

From freeze to fawn to fight, here are the ways how the four F's manifest in relationship dynamics.

lifestyle
By Tapatrisha Das, Delhi
Published on Nov 25, 2023 05:40 pm IST 5 Photos
1/5

There are four types of stress response that the nervous system shows when it senses a threat. "Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn. These responses are deeply rooted in our evolutionary survival mechanisms, and understanding how they show up in relationships can be eye-opening.⁠ It's essential to recognize that these responses are not fixed traits, but rather learned behaviors shaped by past experiences and beliefs. Individuals might also exhibit a combination of these responses depending on the context and the specific relationship challenges they encounter," wrote Therapist Jordan Green. here's how the four F's manifest in relationship dynamics.(Unsplash)
2/5

Fight: In this kind of response, a person attends to the threat head-on. This often involves bouts of anger, tears, glaring and tightened jaw. (Unsplash)
3/5

Flight: This stress response makes the partner want to escape the situation altogether. When confronted with a difficult problem in the relationship, they choose to avoid the scenario completely. Numbness and restlessness are some of the symptoms. (Unsplash)

RECOMMENDED PHOTOS
4/5

Freeze: In this type of stress response, a person becomes completely numb and frozen when confronted. This involves pale skin, feeling cold and numbness. (Unsplash)
5/5

Fawn: This response involves the person submitting to the problem. Being extra nice or mirroring the opinions of others or dissociating in social situations are some of the symptoms.(Unsplash)

VIEW ALL PHOTOS
RELATED PHOTOS
Home / Photos / Lifestyle Photos / How the four F's manifest in relationship dynamics
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Tapatrisha Das

Tapatrisha is Content Producer with Hindustan Times. She covers stories related to health, relationships, and fashion.

OTHER GALLERIES

Manish Malhotra's debut collection at Paris Haute Couture Week 2026 in 20 pics

20
Indian designer Manish Malhotra made his debut at the Paris Haute Couture Week with a stunning collection. 
lifestyle
Published on Jul 09, 2026 01:16 pm IST

Inside Rahul Mishra's 'Devi' collection inspired by ancient Indian goddess: Pics

8
Rahul Mishra unveiled his Spring/Summer 2026 couture collection, Devi, at Paris Haute Couture Week, celebrating the divine feminine through sculptural silhouettes, hand embroidery and motifs inspired by centuries-old Indian temple art.
lifestyle
Published on Jul 07, 2026 01:28 pm IST

Selena Gomez to Jennifer Lopez: What celebrities wore to Taylor Swift's wedding

9
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding wasn't just a celebration of love, it was a star-studded fashion affair. From Selena Gomez to Jennifer Lopez, here's who wore what.
lifestyle
Published on Jul 05, 2026 09:23 am IST

Yoga Day 2026: How Akshay Kumar, Shilpa Shetty and other celebs marked the day

11
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar took part in a yoga session on the occasion of the 12th International Day of Yoga at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. He is seen in a meditative pose here. 
lifestyle
Published on Jun 21, 2026 05:07 pm IST

Zendaya, Tom Holland stun in black outfits for Spider-Man: Brand New Day event

8
The press tour for Spider-Man: Brand New Day is officially underway. Lead stars Zendaya and Tom Holland made a stylish appearance at a photocall in Madrid on June 15, kicking off the duo’s highly anticipated press run for the upcoming film.
lifestyle
Published on Jun 15, 2026 06:06 pm IST

Tony Awards 2026 fashion highlights: Top 8 best dressed stars on the red carpet

8
Renowned for her whimsical fashion choices that often steal the spotlight, Sarah Paulson delivered yet another memorable red-carpet moment in a tea-length silk dress from Erdem Fall 2026 Collection. The charming colour-blocked ensemble featured a cream embroidered bodice adorned with delicate bow details at the sleeves, paired with a pastel-pink embroidered skirt, while long crimson ribbons dangled from the waist, tied into dainty bows.
lifestyle
Published on Jun 08, 2026 11:05 am IST