Since the biology of fear involves some of the same chemical responses to positive emotions, such as excitement and happiness, people can experience either positive or negative emotions to fear.įor instance, some people may find enjoyment in riding extreme roller coasters, whilst others may have a negative reaction and will avoid these at all costs.Īlthough the biochemical reaction for fear may be the same, some people will experience the intensity of fearful situations differently than others. The emotional response to fear, however, is personalized to the individual. Connstricts blood vessels that help maintain blood pressure during times of stress. Norepinephrine (noradrenaline) – increases alertness, arousal, and attention. Epinephrine (adrenaline) – Provides energy to the major muscles of the body so they can respond to a perceived threat.The sympathetic nervous system then stimulates the adrenal glands to trigger the release of hormones, resulting in physical reactions. In response to a threat, the sympathetic nervous system, part of the autonomic nervous system, is activated by the sudden release of hormones. The purpose of these bodily reactions is to prepare the body to either combat the threat or to run away from it – this is called the ‘ fight or flight ’ response. This produces automatic physical reactions such as sweating, increased heart rate, breathlessness, and dilated pupils. The biochemical reaction to fear causes our bodies to respond to perceived threats in the environment. Fear is a normal response to many situations and is composed of two primary reactions: biochemical and emotional reactions.
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