When something critical and bad happens, like a house on fire with people inside it, people react very differently.
- Some persons will usually panic, cry and can barely be soothed.
- Some persons will usually manage to stay calm, think rational and actively do the best out of the situation.
- Sometimes people go into shock, freeze and are unable to act.
For a long time I have wondered what is the difference between people with different reactions. What characterizes those who always seem to keep calm? What is the reason that some never seem to be able to stay calm? What happens mentally when someone freezes and neither panics/cries nor acts?
I suspect this has to do with Big5 Neuroticism or Big5 Openness facet #3("Feelings").