When confronted with a stressful situation, do you fight or fight?

I guess I sort of stick my head in the sand, ostrich-style, when I’m faced with an extremely stressful situation. I know I have to face up to it and deal with it eventually but sometimes I get all panicky and and try to hide from it. However, it’s usually just a case of “sleeping on it” before trying to make a decision or take action. As you said, I assess the situation rather than allowing myself to react irrationally; then I go and kick a$$ if warranted! Annie

I was once taught that when facing a stressful situation you should count to ten and take deep breaths so you can think clearly, the adrenalin can force you into quick decisions and sometimes those decisions are done in haste and regretted afterwards. I know because I have been on the receiving end and I am not proud at the action I took, I decided to fight and it made things much much worse, it also upsets your body and a great deal of stress gives your body a nasty shock. Assessing the situation is important but sometimes we don't have the time and have to make a split second decision whether we fight or flight.

It depends. I really don't like fights but sometimes there is no way to avoid them. I try to stay on the diplomatic side and I will use the flight path if I don't think I can keep it at that level. It's kind of difficult to fight clean though LOL But in general I don't flight or fight I just do the best not to be in the position of having to choose either ;)

I am the same way. I need to think before I act. If I feel cornered, there is no telling what I may do. The body was programmed to either fight or run when in danger. So if you can't do one, you have no choice but to do the other.

I, just like you, prefer to calm down before addressing the issue. When a person is stressed, sometimes they may not make the best decision regarding the situation. Also, stepping back can keep you from doing something you might later regret.