Under pressure this individual tends to be immobilized.  He/she fears making the wrong decision to such an extent that no decision is likely to be made at all.  Checking with others as to what to do is a common strategy, but even then he/she may remain stuck.  There is usually a deep desire for someone else to take over control and responsibility.  Normal problem-solving skills are forgotten or not able to be utilized.  There is a tendency to feel overwhelmed by multiple options that are being presented.  This inclination may operate to such an extent that usual abilities that allow for prioritizing and weighing of options are not accessible.   No answers or short answers are usually demonstrated in communication.  May not be able to remember things clearly.  

Motto: If I am really quiet and still I won't be hurt.

Stress produces a desire to run.  The individual fears being trapped or attacked.  Avoidance of stress-producing problems or people is his/her style of dealing with difficulties.  Tendency is to leave responsibilities for others to finish.  When unable to physically escape, may retreat into fantasy world or TV.  May be unreliable; tendencies to have problems with absenteeism and may have an unstable work history.  Procrastination with tasks and projects is common when stressed.  May use smoking as an excuse to get away from people or get people to move away from him or her.  Anxiety attacks may result if escape is thwarted.  

Motto: If they can't catch me they can't hurt me.

Under pressure the individual tends to be aggressive and become involved in conflicts.  Fears produce a reaction in which he or she takes the offensive in order to get others to give way.  Blame is often placed upon others before others have an opportunity to blame the fighter.  Past mistakes of others are likely to be raised and gossip or undermining of the reputation or support of individuals seen as threatening to safety is often utilized.  Subtle or blatant intimidation is used to find safety.  Though appearing to be strong and self-assured, this individual usually has many self-doubts.  Under courtroom pressure, these individuals may become verbally or physically aggressive if they perceive that things are not going as they would like. 

Mottoes: Do unto others before they can do unto you & Never let them see you sweat.

A stressed submitter gives into the wishes of others in order to remove the stressful circumstances.  The individual is likely to be a caretaker who wants everyone to be happy and is therefore willing to sacrifice him or herself for the sake of that perceived good.  This takes a toll on the person and extended periods of stress can produce mild to severe depression.  Subsequent resentment can produce passive-aggressive behavior where the individual sabotages the success of projects by "forgetting" to do one thing or another.  Individuals with this style of dealing with stress want to be appreciated for their sacrifices and they get their feelings hurt if not appreciated.  This style often stems from oppressive upbringing and may lead to a timid nonassertive personality.  Inability to set healthy boundaries with others is a common problem.  In divorce and custody cases this person is more likely than most to give into the other's demands.  Submitters and fighters often marry each other.

Motto: If I give in to others the stress will go away.

 

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