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AUTISM GLOSSARY
Fawn Response
DEFINITION
The fawn response is a trauma-informed concept describing a stress response in which a person appeases others to avoid conflict or danger. It extends the traditional fight-flight-freeze model. In the context of autism and PDA, fawning may manifest as extreme compliance under pressure.
WHY IT MATTERS
Understanding the fawn response helps explain why some autistic people appear to comply outwardly while experiencing significant internal distress. Outward compliance is not the same as wellbeing.
COMMON MISCONCEPTION
Fawning is not politeness or good behavior. It is a stress response. A child who always says yes and never complains may be fawning rather than content.