At times, almost everyone can get emotionally hijacked—experience a changing physiological state where blood pressure increases and chemicals are released in the brain limiting the ability to think creatively and logically.
When you have a panic attack, or become very anxious your emotional response can actually bypass your “thinking brain.” The…amygdala [small but powerful part of the brain], which is involved with creating a “faster than thought” panic attack… [gets triggered]. It is very difficult, or impossible, to think clearly when highly emotional because the part of the brain you think with is inhibited…This response has been termed an “emotional hijacking” by Daniel Goleman.[1]
One can think of this phenomenon as the inverse of “being in the zone.” We have heard of blinding rage or have been so frustrated that we couldn’t really make rational decisions or see straight. Goleman and most other researchers in the field agree that when this phenomenon happens, the feeling can last a minimum of 10-18 minutes.
Consider all of the things our brain is responsible for—logic, reason, breathing, decision making, creativity, communication, etc. When we are really angry and get hijacked, many of those functions get disrupted. When this happens, we have lost our ability to work with other people to find solutions that satisfy everyone. We have essentially lost our minds!
We are responsible for our behavior, whether we are hijacked or not. When reactions do not pass acceptable standards, consequences generally follow. Even if responses from others are not vocalized, witnessing someone that is emotionally hijacked is difficult to forget or even overcome.
Emotional hijacking can escalate the negativity in a relationship or situation.
While we are not responsible for other people’s feelings, we do contribute to them and often make it easier for people to get frustrated. Language is powerful. People under stressful situations can be sensitive. A single word may be a bridge to more conflict if we are not careful. Do what you can to know your triggers and have situational and emotional awareness to avoid getting hijacked.
Have a great day!
Dave
[1] Panic-attacks.co.uk, “Part 5: The Brain and Panic Attacks: Emotional Hijacking,” The Panic Attack Prevention Program, 2001-2006, <http://www.panic-attacks.co.uk/panic_attacks_5.htm /> July 26, 2006.
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