Schema Coping Modes: FLIGHT

Detached Protector Mode

This FLIGHT mode allows for avoidance of feelings by psychologically detaching to reduce emotional overwhelm.

Detached Protractor Mode handout from The Psych Collective

Avoidant Protector Mode

This FLIGHT mode allows for avoidance of feelings by avoiding situations or relationships where there is a risk of feeling distressed or anxious.

Angry Protector Mode

This FLIGHT mode uses a wall of anger to push people away to avoid people getting close. It can also look like silent hostility, stonewalling or sulking.

Detached Self-Soother Mode

This FLIGHT mode avoids feeling vulnerability by using 'stuff' to take the feelings away, such as alcohol, pills, food, shopping or sex. These behaviours are often engaged in mindlessly, leading to overuse and regrettable actions.

Complaining Protector

This FLIGHT mode avoids feeling vulnerability by pushing blame on to other people. In this video, we discuss the difference between complaining and venting and how you need to use radical responsibility to engage your Healthy Adult.

To download our handouts, go to the Resources page.

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