Fight, flight or freeze: Would you step in when danger strikes?
A recent incident in Singapore involving a citizen subduing a knife-wielding man has sparked a discussion on the psychology of bystander intervention. Experts note that while some individuals feel compelled to act, human responses to danger are often unpredictable and risky.
Why it matters
Understanding the 'fight, flight, or freeze' response helps clarify the risks and ethical considerations of civilian intervention in public safety crises.
A Singaporean’s decision to subdue a knife-wielding man has put citizen bravery in the spotlight. CNA looks at what drives our responses to danger and when intervening could do more harm than good.
When confronted with an actual threat, psychologists say our responses can be far less predictable. (Photo: iStock/Chaichan Pramjit)
Caitlin Ng & Olivia Chang 25 Aug 2026 10:39AM (Updated: 25 Aug 2026 02:03PM) Bookmark Bookmark Share WhatsApp Telegram Facebook Twitter Email LinkedIn Set CNA as your preferred source on Google Add CNA as a trusted source to help Google better understand and surface our content in search results. Read a summary of this article on FAST. Get bite-sized news via a new cards interface. Give it a try. Click here to return to FAST Tap here to return to FAST FAST SINGAPORE: Faced with someone wielding a knife, would you intervene, move to safety or call the police?
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