The Fear Paralysis Reflex

This reflex is an early intrauterine, rather than primitive reflex that emerges in the womb sometime during the second month after conception.  The Fear Paralysis Reflex is one of the earliest reflexes and the most characteristic reaction is withdrawal away and/or a temporary freeze from any sudden, unexpected or threatening stimuli, event or trauma.  When this happens, the fetus shuts off its environment by producing stress proteins and literally becomes paralyzed by fear.

Some symptoms of a nonintegrated Fear Paralysis Reflex

• Low tolerance to stress; a sense of being frozen or feeling stuck

• Can cause lifelong challenges related to fear and underlying anxiety

• Social isolation and fear of new situations or activities; extreme shyness

• Fear of failure; perfectionism

• Helplessness; depression

• Hypersensitivity to one or several of the senses, especially touch, sound and light

• Sleeping and/or eating disorders

• Panic attacks and social phobias are often seen in adults

• Temper tantrums; holding one’s breath; oppositional or aggressive behaviors can be seen.

• Difficulty making or maintaining eye contact or intense staring often without blinking