Kathrine Frich
With the Doomsday Clock closer to midnight than at any point in history, fears of nuclear conflict are no longer abstract.
What once belonged to Cold War nightmares is now creeping into everyday life.
Today, the possibility of a nuclear disaster is something people talk about in passing or while waiting for the bus.
Three reactions
According to research cited by Psychology Today and Unilad, the so-called “10-80-10” rule divides people into three groups during extreme emergencies.
The first 10% are those who remain calm, assess the situation and act decisively.
These individuals are more likely to take control, make rational decisions and even help others survive.
Frozen majority
The largest group, around 80%, are expected to become overwhelmed and confused.
Experts say these individuals may struggle to process what is happening and fail to act quickly.
This hesitation can significantly reduce their chances of survival in fast-moving disasters.
Critical minority
The final 10% are those who panic or give up entirely.
According to the theory, their behavior can become irrational and self-destructive.
In extreme scenarios, this group is considered the least likely to survive.
Survival advice
Experts stress that preparation and awareness can help shift people into the first category.
Brooke Buddemeier of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory warned against one common instinct.
“Don’t get in your car. Don’t try to drive, and don’t assume that the glass and metal of a vehicle can protect you,” he said, according to Business Insider.
Instead, immediate shelter and clear thinking are considered key factors in improving survival odds.
Sources: Psychology Today, Business Insider, Unilad.
