NEWLY UPDATED OCTOBER 2026!

This chart was designed to complement Dr. Bruce Perry's Arousal Continuum Model. The 5 levels of arousal are laid out with easy to reference information regarding what's going on in the brain at each arousal level, what you might see in terms of behavior (with hyperarousal or fight/flight), how language might sound, whether supporting the student is still appropriate for a group setting, who should be involved in supporting the student at that time, and example strategies that are more often effective for that particular level of arousal.

The original download was updated in October 2026 and now includes more print-friendly options and examples of what fight/aggressive behaviors can look like across arousal levels (because aggression at Stage 3 doesn't look like or respond to the same things that aggression at a Stage 5 does!). There are also NEW forms you can use to describe what an individual student/child's behavior tends to look like at different levels of stress arousal to support understanding and consistency in how you and your team respond to the student that's in front of you!

Interested in learning more or in bringing this information to your teams? Get in touch to schedule professional development for small teams or full staff!

Check out the Visual Infographic Versions for Schools and Homes both if you prefer a more image driven option!

Remember, aim to learn how someone looks and sounds at a higher Stage 2 and lower Stage 3 and target your efforts there rather than waiting until behaviors feel more disruptive or problematic. You'll be glad you did!

Designed for schools, the material is easily adapted to home environments.
 
As always, if you have interest in having this customized in any way, just reach out. Fees for customization of an already created resource range from $5-20 depending on time involved.