Tonic Immobility Response
Freeze in fear
Tonic immobility is a common response to high-intensity fear-inducing events, characterized by physiological paralysis and catatonic-like body posture. It is an involuntary response that appears to be automatic and unlearned. Tonic immobility is often accompanied by extreme levels of fear and a sense of entrapment, which may persist after the assault, leading to avoidance of situations linked with the assault.
- Tonic immobility is an involuntary response to extreme fear and entrapment.
- It is characterized by physiological paralysis and catatonic-like body posture.
- Tonic immobility is often accompanied by extreme levels of fear and a sense of entrapment.
- Recognition of Tonic ImmobilityRecognize the signs of tonic immobility, including physiological paralysis and catatonic-like body posture.Pro tipBe aware of the potential for tonic immobility in victims of sexual assault.WarningTonic immobility is not a sign of consent or enjoyment.
- Understanding the Causes of Tonic ImmobilityUnderstand the causes of tonic immobility, including extreme fear and entrapment.Pro tipConsider the context in which the tonic immobility occurred.WarningTonic immobility is not a sign of weakness or flaw in the victim.
- Supporting Victims of Tonic ImmobilityProvide support and resources to victims of tonic immobility, including counseling and medical attention.Pro tipBe sensitive to the victim's needs and feelings.WarningAvoid blaming or shaming the victim for their response.
A victim of rape experiences tonic immobility during the attack, characterized by physiological paralysis and catatonic-like body posture.
Prey animals, such as opossums, 'play dead' when attacked, exhibiting tonic immobility.
Tonic immobility has been observed in various animal species, including prey animals that 'play dead' when attacked. In humans, it is often seen in victims of sexual assault, who may experience tonic immobility during the attack.