Crisis is a state occurring when obstacles arise that cannot be overcome by normal problem-solving strategies. These obstacles may present as isolated traumatic incidents or as a series of stressful events. Experiencing traumatic events can lead to a state of psychological disequilibrium. When psychological homeostasis is threatened, the natural reaction is to restore the self to equilibrium; however, the disequilibrium caused by traumatic events creates a situation where the individual is unable to return to homeostasis with his or her normal coping mechanisms. Researchers have postulated four recognized stages of crisis: (1) an increase in tension, (2) a disruption in daily functioning due to the increased tension, (3) depression as a result of being unable to resolve the tension, and (4) use of different ...

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