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

Buildings of the future: 10 architectural marvels now open to the public

12
What will the buildings of the future look like? Well, some are already here. Take a look at dramatic structures now open to the public: a ‘mushroom’ that combines art and agriculture; an opera house that lets people saunter along its stepped facade; a floating ‘oasis’ full of classrooms; a mosque with net-zero goals; a church that mirrors a forest. Tucked into each are tips on new ways forward for us all.
lifestyle
Updated on Aug 01, 2026 04:28 pm IST

Zendaya sparkles at Spider-Man premiere as she shows off her engagement ring

10
Zendaya poses for photographers upon arrival at the Spider-Man: Brand New Day premiere in London, England, Wednesday, July 29, 2026. (Photo by Alberto Pezzali/Invision/AP)
lifestyle
Updated on Jul 31, 2026 10:02 am IST

Top 7 looks from Zendaya's Spider-Man: Brand New Day press tour

8
As Spider-Man: Brand New Day gears up to release in theatres on July 30 in India, Zendaya's spectacular press tour has once again cemented her status as the undisputed queen of method dressing. Working closely with her longtime stylist, Law Roach, the actor served a series of jaw-dropping Spider-Man-inspired looks that blurred the line between couture and character.
lifestyle
Published on Jul 28, 2026 05:28 pm IST

Masaba Gupta showcases first-ever bridal collection at 2026 India Couture Week

10
Pearl Academy presented its global icon, Masaba Gupta, for the House of Masaba showcase at India Couture Week 2026. Masaba showcased her latest collection, Chardi Kala, a collection rooted in optimism, resilience, and the vibrant spirit of India. 
lifestyle
Published on Aug 04, 2026 12:18 pm IST

Falguni Shane Peacock to Rohit Bal showcases at India Couture Week in 15 pics

15
Models showcase the creations from late fashion designer Rohit Bal's label during the 19th edition of the Hyundai India Couture Week, in New Delhi. 
lifestyle
Published on Jul 25, 2026 11:52 am IST

The Odyssey New York premiere: Anne Hathaway to Zendaya, what the cast wore

10
Christopher Nolan's epic action drama The Odyssey is all set to hit the screens on July 17. On Tuesday, the cast and crew of the film arrived in New York for the film's grand premiere, dressed in elaborate designer ensembles. Here's a look at who wore what. 
lifestyle
Published on Jul 15, 2026 11:07 am IST