83: Beyond Fragility: An Anti-Racism Guide by Women of Color Psychologists with Dr. Natalie Watson-Singleton and Dr. Yara Mekawi
Struggle Care
How Fight or Flight Response Impacts Our Effectiveness in Anti-Racism
Understanding the impact of the fight or flight response on anti-racism efforts is crucial. Physiologically, our reactions are hardwired to respond to threatening information for survival. However, the response to immediate physical threats differs from perceived social threats, such as being labeled as racist. Recognizing this physiological hardwiring can help individuals step back and evaluate their reactions. In situations where the fight or flight response is triggered, individuals may either become defensive or disengage, neither of which is conducive to effective anti-racism work. It is essential to acknowledge and manage these reactions to engage meaningfully in anti-racist efforts. Resisting difficult emotions and discomfort can hinder the reflection necessary to confront biases and improve one's allyship. Recognizing the physiological basis of the fight or flight response and distinguishing between actual threats to safety and perceived threats is crucial in navigating anti-racist work effectively.
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