The “amygdala hijack” that you describe is an under appreciated phenomenon that pervades organizations at all levels. Virtually every problem that affects productivity and success can be traced back to people’s reactions according to how their limiting self beliefs are triggered. Reading emails carefully can provide fascinating insights into this.

Regarding SCARF, I do question the fairness aspect of this. Our expectation of being treated fairly contributes to our anxiety, I believe. Life ain’t fair. Nature ain’t fair. Why should we expect fairness? I believe the desire for fairness is just another way that our amygdala speaks to us. I wonder what you think?