The Four F’s of Trauma Responses

Trauma Response Wheel | Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn & Connected | Polyvagal-Informed Emotional Regulation Chart

This beautifully designed Trauma Response Wheel is a clear, compassionate visual tool that helps individuals understand what is happening in their nervous system and how to move back toward regulation and connection.

Rooted in polyvagal theory and trauma-informed care, this chart breaks down the four survival responses Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn while highlighting the goal state of being Connected and regulated. Each section includes common emotional, physical, and behavioral experiences, making it easy to recognize nervous system states in real time.

What makes this resource especially powerful is that it does not stop at awareness. Each survival response includes practical “Getting Back to Green” strategies that offer concrete, body-based tools to support regulation, grounding, and safety.

What’s Included

• Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn, and Connected nervous system states
• Clear descriptions of emotions, body sensations, and behaviors
• Polyvagal-informed regulation strategies for each state
• A central Connected zone focused on control, choice, and safety
• Simple, accessible language for teens, adults, and educators

Perfect For

• Therapists, counselors, and coaches
• Trauma-informed classrooms and calm corners
• Parents supporting emotional regulation at home
• Teens and adults learning nervous system awareness
• Therapy offices, schools, and wellness spaces

How You Can Use It

• Psychoeducation tool in sessions
• Visual aid for emotional check-ins
• Regulation guide for calm down spaces
• Conversation starter for feelings and behaviors
• Daily reminder that all feelings are allowed and manageable

Why This Resource Matters

This chart helps normalize trauma responses by showing that Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Fawn are not bad behaviors but protective nervous system reactions. It gently reinforces the message that we can feel all of our feelings and still stay in control, build awareness, and choose regulation skills that work for our bodies.

Important Notes

This is a digital educational resource. No physical item will be mailed.
Colors and appearance may vary slightly depending on screen and printer settings.
For educational and therapeutic use only.