Chapter Questions
Share examples of crises that you or people you know (not clients) have experienced. What was the nature of the crisis? How did the person (or group) respond, and what factors seemed to influence the response?
Psychological stresses can be categorized as involving harm, threats, or challenges. Identify examples of each of these stress perceptions as they are seen in direct practice. How does the way in which the situations are perceived influence clients' reactions? Are client perceptions generally realistic in this regard?
In this chapter, crisis intervention strategies are described from the perspective of six practice theories. Consider other examples of client situations that would be suited to each of these intervention perspectives.
All crisis interventions feature rapid assessment, time limits, a focus on few issues, and a high level of practitioner activity. Review the case illustrations included in this chapter and identify how each of these features was evident.
Discuss some ways that a social worker can help a client in crisis process issues of spirituality (when the client wishes to do so) while maintaining a position of spiritual "neutrality."