Caught up in a violent attack, would you be a hero – or would you run? Both can be valuable | Emma Kavanagh
Last weekend, a tragic attack on train passengers in Cambridgeshire sent shockwaves through the community and reignited a pressing question we often ponder: how would we react in the face of such terror? Emma Kavanagh, a psychologist with extensive experience in law enforcement and military settings, provides insight into this dilemma. The incident has sparked discussions about heroism and self-preservation, as witnesses and bystanders grapple with their responses during the chaos. While some may envision themselves as brave saviors, ready to confront an attacker, others might realistically consider fleeing to safety. Kavanagh’s reflections prompt us to examine our instincts and the complexities of human behavior in crisis situations.
Kavanagh’s expertise sheds light on the psychological mechanisms at play when individuals face life-threatening scenarios. She emphasizes that our reactions can vary widely, influenced by numerous factors, including personality traits, past experiences, and even the nature of the threat itself. While some individuals may instinctively rush to help, others may freeze or flee, driven by the primal urge for self-preservation. This divergence in behavior raises important questions about the nature of courage and the moral dilemmas we face when confronted with danger. Kavanagh’s insights encourage a deeper understanding of these reactions, reminding us that there is no universal response to crisis situations, and that each individual’s choice can be shaped by a multitude of circumstances.
In light of these discussions, the importance of mental health support cannot be overstated. Following traumatic events, individuals may experience a range of emotional responses, from anxiety to post-traumatic stress. Resources are available for those in need, including the charity Mind in the UK and Mental Health America in the US, which provide crucial support to those grappling with the psychological aftermath of violent incidents. Kavanagh’s reflections not only highlight the need for immediate action in emergencies but also underscore the significance of ongoing mental health support for individuals affected by such tragedies. As we reflect on the events in Cambridgeshire, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the vital role of community support in healing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pp4Uk8o9rfM
Last weekend’s Cambridgeshire train attack brought up a question that we often ask ourselves. But the answer isn’t simple
Emma Kavanagh is a psychologist who has worked for the police and the military
The devastating
attack on train passengers
in Cambridgeshire last weekend was shocking. There has
been talk of heroes
who risked their lives to help others, and of
those who hid
to save their lives. If you are anything like me, you will be asking yourself: what if that were me? How would I cope? And just who would I turn out to be when the worst happens?
Some of us imagine that we would vault to the rescue, fighting off attackers. Others, perhaps the more realistic among us, anticipate flight, extricating ourselves from the situation as quickly and efficiently as possible. Most of us would like to think that we would stay our urge to run, lingering long enough to offer aid to those in need.
Emma Kavanagh is a psychologist who worked for many years for the police and military. Her books include How to Be Broken and The Psychopath Effect, to be published in 2026
In the UK, the charity
Mind
is available on 0300 123 3393. In the US, call or text
Mental Health America
at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. In Australia, support is available at
Beyond Blue
on 1300 22 4636,
Lifeline
on 13 11 14, and at
MensLine
on 1300 789 978
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