Crisis Theory & Life Events

Presentation to EPI 6181 classby Crystal Dunn,

October 2003

Crisis Theory Origin

Erikson (1950-59) 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