Crisis Theory & Life Events Presentation to EPI 6181 class by Crystal Dunn, October 2003

Crisis Theory Origin Erikson ( ) Normal personality growth occurs through resolution of normative developmental crises Those who resolve problems in previous stage achieve lasting solution, new skill, confidence etc. – building blocks for future solutions – coping mechanisms Potential for development or vulnerability Caplan (1961) Unscheduled crises or life events, when successfully resolved, also promote growth

Crisis Theory Defined Crisis = upset in steady state Life cycle is a series of events that may or may not cause crisis (normative OR unscheduled) Crisis refers to the emotional reaction to a hazardous event, and not the situation itself “Call to action” Crisis situation involves both danger and opportunity

Crisis Theory Defined con’t Crisis may be viewed as a challenge, a threat, or a loss Views depend on unique physical and emotional makeup as well as resources available to handle situation Not every hazardous event becomes a crisis for every person because it may or may not produce a state of disequilibrium

3 Stages of Crisis Theory & Goals Pre-Crisis Health promotion & disease prevention Crisis Amelioration and/or Restoration Post-Crisis Rehabilitation or maintenance

2 Types of Hazardous Events Developmental hazardous events Those that everyone experiences Normative, predictable Requires new problem-solving mechanisms e.g. birth, entry into school, marriage, death of loved one; all maturational phases Situational Hazardous events Accidental happenings that some persons experience; not same for everyone Require new problem-solving mechanisms e.g. change in job, accident, disease

Pre-Crisis Stage Whether or not hazardous event leads to individual crisis depends on perception of problem (may be real or imagined) If the person possesses adequate adaptive mechanisms, there will be a solution to the problem, or recovery Through experiencing the event, person has added to problem-solving mechanisms and achieves higher level of functioning.

Crisis Stage Coping mechanisms fail Reaction to the problem is unique for each individual Original problem actually intensifies in this stage Intervention may lead to resolution of crisis and growth may be achieved – new coping mechanisms developed

Post Crisis Either growth or regression Major disorganization if no resolution Becomes more difficult to mobilize resources and seek additional help Leads to breakdown or maladaptation Intervention at this stage may achieve maximum possible level of wellness Otherwise, entropy increases, which lead directly to death

Developmental Hazardous Events Human Sexuality Child birth continuum Changing physical status Accomplishment of socialization Accomplishment of industry/work Achieving a rational and dignified end to life (does not include sudden or untimely death)

Situational Hazardous Events Loss of Relationships Loss of Regulation Loss of Protective Measures Loss of Mobility Loss of Sensory-Motor Function Loss of Patency (e.g. blocked arteries) Loss of Reproductive Integrity