I use this as an example to explain the difference between a reaction and a response: Someone has fallen and may have a broken leg. Family members see their loved one crying out in pain.
Reaction:
- The family gets emotional, “OH, NO!” What are we going to do?
- Someone decides to call 9-1-1.
- Happens in emotion brain.
Response:
- The ambulance is now on its way.
- During the drive over the paramedic is reviewing in his mind the medical protocol for a possible broken leg.
- Once the paramedic arrives the family is relieved. The emotions start to subside because “help is here.”
- The paramedic then treats the loved one following the medical protocol.
- Happens in thinking brain.
A reaction can be fight, flight or freeze. It might be “I don’t know what to do.” Reactions happen as a reflex, and the emotions can be high. A response happens when the emotions are low. A plan can be developed in advance, practiced and then followed, as needed