Threat system

Heard in 1 episode across 1 show since Sep 2026

In psychology and neuroscience, the threat system is an evolutionary brain network designed to detect, process, and respond to potential dangers in the environment. It triggers rapid physiological and emotional reactions, such as anxiety, anger, and the fight-or-flight response, primarily mediated by brain structures like the amygdala and the sympathetic nervous system. In therapeutic frameworks like Paul Gilbert's Compassion-Focused Therapy, it is conceptualized as one of three primary emotion regulation systems that must be balanced with the drive and soothing systems for optimal mental well-being.