A brief guide to understanding FEAR: one of Motional's Social Defence Subdomains and one of the systems identified by Jaak Panksepp during his forty-plus years of research into emotions. What is FEAR and why is it important to understand it?
What is FEAR?
FEAR is one of the subdomains in Motional. It refers to the FEAR system, one of the systems identified by Jaak Panksepp during his forty-plus years of research into emotions and led to the development of what was later called "Affective Neuroscience".
FEAR refers to the neural circuits and associated brain regions that regulate our response to perceived threats or danger. This system plays a crucial role in our emotional regulation and keeping us safe. It is located in the sub-cortical region of the brain.
The FEAR system is a complex network of chemicals and neurological processes primarily centred around the amygdalae, two small almond-shaped structures (one on each hemisphere of the brain) responsible for processing and responding to emotional stimuli.
When we perceive a threat, the amygdala sends a signal to the hypothalamus, which activates the sympathetic nervous system and triggers the release of adrenaline and other stress hormones such as cortisol and norepinephrine. These chemicals prepare the body for a fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure and focusing our attention on the perceived threat.
Why is FEAR important?
Overall, the FEAR system plays a crucial role in our ability to respond to threats and navigate the world safely. However, an overactive FEAR system can have negative implications for children's emotional health, particularly in the context of education.
Children who have experienced trauma or stress are more likely to have an overactive FEAR system, which can lead to anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and difficulty regulating emotions. This can present in school through dysregulation and difficulties in socialisation, attention and engagement.
An understanding of the FEAR system and its role in children's emotional health can help teachers, SENDCos, ALNCos and Senior Leads in schools take steps to create a safe and supportive environment for children. This might include establishing clear routines and expectations and providing opportunities for relaxation and play.
Why is FEAR capitalised?
Jaak Panksepp established this convention. When FEAR is capitalised, it specifically points to a unique emotional system within the brain, distinguishing it from the common usage of the word 'fear.'