Back to Temporal States

Startle Stimulus

sensory Immediate

A sudden, unexpected sensory input that triggers an automatic startle response.

Onset
sudden
Duration
momentary
Intensity
high
Typical States
3

Examples

Door slamming unexpectedly

Someone tapping your shoulder from behind

Flash of lightning

Common Contexts

Unexpected soundsSudden movementsLight changesTouch surprises

Coping Strategies

Orient to environment

Identify source of startle

Take a deep breath

Ground yourself

Warning Signals

Heightened startle response

Hypervigilance

Related Triggers

Sudden Physical Threat

An immediate perception of physical danger - real or perceived.