Threat Matrix

A novel but non-threatening stimulus can redirect attention from threat and support new strategies. Salience refers to input that is novel, different, or meaningful enough to change self-representation. The threat matrix frames the brain as a super-system that selects outputs to help survival or combat perceived threat. Unfamiliar therapeutic inputs can produce strong changes because they are salient. Novelty and contrast may matter more than stimulus intensity in threat processing. Threat reduction is organized as redirecting attention, rebuilding strategies and motor programs, then progressing to function and participation.