Animal Quote by Clarissa Pinkola Estes
“When a creature is exposed to violence, it will tend to adapt to that disturbance, so that when the violence ceases or the creature is allowed its freedom, the healthy instinct to flee is hugely diminished, and the creature stays put instead.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Women Who Run With the Wolves, Clarissa Pinkola Estes, 1992
Exposure to violence normalizes fear, eroding natural escape instincts and causing passivity when safety returns.
In simple terms: Violence dulls the instinct to flee, leading to staying still.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and restore healthy fear responses.
Themes
psychology
trauma
adaptation
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
advice
psychological
When to use this quote
- post‑conflict reintegration
- rehabilitation programs
- personal recovery
- animal welfare
Key Concepts
survival instinct
learned helplessness
behavioral conditioning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one rebuild confidence after trauma?
- What practices restore natural self‑preservation?
A Different Perspective
Even after danger ends, fear may persist, hindering growth.
