Reptilian brain · Threat Response
Defensive Aggression
Striking first when threatened, or redirecting fear at a safer target; the anger feels like strength but is fear in motion, and it is easy to provoke on purpose.
An everyday example
Snapping at a junior colleague after a bruising board call, or attacking a vendor over a small error to avoid admitting a bigger one.
What it can cost you
Damaging relationships and decisions to discharge fear; being provoked into looking unreasonable.
Warning signs
- I am angrier than the situation deserves.
- I picked a target that could not fight back.
One thing to do
When you want to attack, find the fear underneath; act on that instead.
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