What is the term for the emotion-based reaction of officers during high-stress situations?

The term for the emotion-based reaction of officers during high-stress situations is often referred to as tunnel vision or the "white out" effect. This phenomenon occurs when an individual becomes so focused on a perceived threat or situation that they lose the ability to take in other relevant information. In high-stress circumstances, such as an emergency or critical incident, an officer may experience a narrowed focus, which can lead to missing vital details that could be important for decision-making and situational assessment.

Tunnel vision can significantly affect an officer's response, limiting their awareness of alternative threats, the broader context of the situation, or other important cues in the environment. Understanding tunnel vision is critical for law enforcement professionals, as overcoming or managing this reaction can help ensure more effective responses to high-pressure incidents and enhance overall safety for both officers and the public.

Other terms like heightened awareness, cognitive overload, and emotional detachment refer to different psychological responses to stress and do not specifically encapsulate the focused, narrowed perception characteristic of tunnel vision in critical situations.