Foetal Startle (FS), aka Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR)
Emerges 5-7 weeks in utero
Inhibits 18 weeks in utero
Stimulus and response Sudden sensory stimulation results in immediate motor paralysis, reduction in muscle tone, reduced reaction to external stimuli, restriction of peripheral circulation, lowered heart rate.
Function To make the foetus freeze/shut down – so that if mother is in fight/flight situation, the foetus doesn’t make any demands on her system, nor does it take in her rush of adrenaline. It is transformed into the Moro reflex.
Effect when retained A key reflex which if retained, locks your system in a state of fear that impacts on your whole life. If the FS is still present, then so is the Moro, because the Moro is necessary to arouse you from the paralysis state of the FS. It can be hugely confusing having both conflicting reflexes still active, and may result in a tendency to appear controlled and calm under stress, although there is an emotional maelstrom under the surface.
Potential symptoms
- Inability to make decisions when in shock or under stress
- Feeling ‘weak at the knees’ or frozen ‘rabbit in the headlights’ when frightened or stressed
- Slow response in shock situation
- Low tolerance to stress
- General sense of anxiety
- Hypersensitivity to touch, sound, changes in visual field
- Dislike of change or surprise, poor adaptability
- Reluctance to try new activities, especially in competitive environment
- Shyness
- Fear of new situations, unfamiliar people, social embarrassment, school. May become socially isolated and withdrawn
- Elective mutism – unable to speak in certain stressful situations, although speech is quite normal (system is so overwhelmed that the vocal chords become temporarily paralysed)
- Holding breath
- Insecurity; lack of self-belief/trust
- Either overly clingy or unable to accept or give affection easily
- Craves attention
- Compulsive traits/obsessive compulsive disorder
- Negativity, defeatist attitude
- Depression
- Temper tantrums
- Controlling or defiant behaviour, especially at home
- Eating disorders
- Avoids confrontation
- Eager to pacify or please (even if contra to own self-interest)
- Night terrors/nightmares
