Overview of Course No. 2650

Learn how to build a robust psychological toolkit for survival in a host of life-threatening situations and emergency scenarios.

Introduction to Survival Psychology

Have you ever wondered how you could possibly survive a physical assault or imagined what you would do if someone followed you in a dark parking lot? Most likely you have—it’s human nature to wonder. In this course, you’ll learn how to prepare now to give yourself the very best chance of surviving a life-threatening emergency.

The Nature of Survival

When we hear about someone surviving a great challenge, we often hear that the person “rose to the occasion.” However, psychologists find that people do not rise to the occasion; instead, they revert to their lowest level of training and preparation. This course focuses on how to elevate your “lowest level” through continuous training and preparation.

Psychological Factors for Survival

You’ll learn to identify and strengthen specific psychological factors to give yourself the best possible chance of survival, regardless of the critical incident you face. Professor Zarse discusses the importance of internal locus of control, instincts, emotional management, and understanding your capabilities.

Real-World Applications

In addition to survival skills and strategies, you’ll hear stories of individuals who used these techniques to survive real-world situations. Through their experiences, you’ll identify the psychological factors that contributed to their survival.

Building Psychological Strengths

Many survivors discussed in this course had no specific survival training, but their life experiences helped them build significant psychological strengths. You’ll learn that you, too, can cultivate the necessary skills to survive in a crisis.

Video Lecture List

• What It Means to Survive

Surviving a crisis requires navigating both the event and the elements you bring with you. Learn how your words can impact your survival. (26 min)

• Developing an Internal Locus of Control

Discover how an internal locus of control aids in crises and enhances adaptability in various life situations. (38 min)

• Listening to Your Instincts

Understand how to recognize and utilize your instincts for survival, distinguishing them from impulses and feelings. (29 min)

4. Listening to Your Intuitions

Learn how to strengthen your intuitions, which are shaped by your life experiences, to better trust them in crises. (27 min)

• Managing Your Emotions under Threat

Explore strategies to manage emotions during emergencies, allowing for better decision-making under pressure. (37 min)

• How Everyday Experience Prepares You for Crisis

Identify your existing skills and abilities that can aid in survival and consider how to develop new ones. (31 min)

• Making Decisions under Pressure

Discover effective decision-making strategies in high-stakes situations and the importance of a psychologically safe environment. (29 min)

• Developing Situational Awareness

Master the OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) to enhance your situational awareness in critical incidents. (29 min)

9. Perseverance toward a Positive Outcome

Explore the factors contributing to perseverance and learn how to improve your mental conditioning for survival. (31 min)

• Protective Factors That Increase Your Odds

Understand how community involvement and social networks can serve as survival tools during crises. (22 min)

• Resilience in the Aftermath of Trauma

Learn about post-traumatic growth and the common traits of those who thrive after surviving a crisis. (28 min)

• We Survive Together: The Power of Community

Discover how leadership and relationships can influence a community's ability to survive and thrive in crises. (35 min)