Strakh

Strakh is the transliteration of the Cyrillic word страх, meaning fear or dread. In psychology and everyday language, it refers to an emotional response to a real or perceived threat, which can be adaptive by promoting protective actions but may become excessive or inappropriate in certain situations.

Neurobiologically, fear involves a rapid appraisal of potential danger by brain networks that include the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and various limbic structures. The amygdala can trigger the fight-or-flight response, activating the autonomic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis to increase heart rate, respiration, and alertness. Cognitive appraisal, past experiences, and context influence the intensity and duration of fear.

Fear manifests in various forms. Acute fear occurs in response to immediate danger, while anticipatory fear or anxiety arises in anticipation of a threat. Specific phobias involve intense, persistent fear of particular objects or situations; social fear relates to performance or interaction contexts; panic disorder features sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms. Fear can be adaptive, helping organisms avoid harm, but chronic or excessive fear can impair functioning and quality of life.

Cultural, social, and individual factors shape how fear is experienced and expressed. Assessment typically relies on clinical history and standardized questionnaires, and treatment often includes exposure-based therapies, cognitive-behavioral techniques, relaxation and mindfulness practices, and, in some cases, pharmacotherapy. Understanding fear as a normal human emotion, with potential for both protection and distress, provides a balanced view of its role in behavior and mental health.