CISD and Crisis Intervention: A Qualitative Study
CISD and Crisis Intervention: A Qualitative Study
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Issue Date
2012
Authors
Harary, Samuel K.
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Abstract
Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) is an intervention widely utilized by first-response workers. In 1983, Mitchell proposed a seven-phase protocol outlining how to conduct a CISD to assist first-response workers in alleviating symptoms of critical incident stress (CIS). CISD is one of several post-trauma interventions. Since then, CISD's credibility has been questioned, and there has been confusion over terms and definitions. In 1997, with assistance from Everley, Mitchell expanded the intervention into a more comprehensive and multicomponent system called Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). The present study takes an in-depth look at the qualitative phenomenological experiences of six first responders (firefighters and paramedics) from the inner-city and rural areas of Northern California. This researcher found observable differences and commonalities of the CISD experience, including: Self-Disclosure and the Experience ofSafety; Feelings and Defusing: Resolution of CIS; Authority and Privilege Differential; Impressions of Facilitators; Awareness of Distinct Cultural Representation; CIS Symptoms; Importance of Follow-up and CISM Resource Generation. This researcher observes a lack of culturally sensitive awareness in the seven protocols of CISD, which was reflected in the experiences of study participants as they described their group experiences with CISD facilitators following the CISD group protocols. This study offers suggestions for incorporating cross-cultural elements into the facilitator training, which would enhance CISD and make it better able to meet the needs of culturally diverse participants.
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Keywords
"Critical Incident Stress Debriefing","CISD”,"Critical Incident Stress Management",“CISM”,“debriefing”,“defusing","critical incident stress"