startle reaction

The startle reaction can be detected as an abnormal increase in muscle tension causing rigidity and the inability to move.

Most researchers regard startle reaction as pre-emotional rather than cognitively emotional, (15) with associated motor response.

"All this is involved in modifying the startle reaction at the same point--before motor action.

Depression, numbness, fatiqibility low threshold for hot weather, persecutory ideas, intrusive thoughts, startle reaction insomnia and periodic disorientation were noticed in 60% of women, 10% of men and 30% of children.

Then the doctor stuck the scissors in the back of his head, and the baby's arms jerked out, like a startle reaction....

In Grunert et al.'s study (1992), prominent PTSD symptoms were reported by workers who were assessed five days postinjury; 81% reported flashbacks, 70% reported nightmares, 38% reported startle reaction, 20% reported behavioral avoidance, and 44% reported gaze aversion to the injured hand.