One of the instinctual responses humans have to perceived danger is freeze. While the specific freeze response may change depending on the person and the situation, it is driven by a release of hormones in preparation for a stressful event. This release of hormones also drives specific behaviors that are used to cope with the stressor, such as lying, running away, falling asleep, and most frequently, avoidance. Our instincts are programmed to protect us from what we believe are dangerous situations. However, our specific behaviors in response to this perceived danger is learned, and can be changed over time.