Crisis Prevention
Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
Understanding Behavior
De-escalation Techniques
The Crisis Cycle
100

What is the primary goal of crisis prevention in TCI?

To prevent a crisis before it escalates by creating a safe and supportive environment

100

What percentage of communication is nonverbal?

55% is nonverbal, 38% is tone, and 7% is words.

100

What is the “pain-based behavior” concept in TCI?

Behavior driven by underlying emotional pain or trauma.

100

Name a simple, nonverbal de-escalation technique.

Open hands, calm posture.

100

What is the first stage of the crisis cycle?

Baseline.

200

Name the one key strategy for maintaining a therapeutic environment.

Building positive relationships with youth.

200

What does an “open posture” communicate in a crisis?

It shows calmness, safety, and a willingness to engage.

200

List two common triggers for youth in crisis.

Feeling misunderstood and lack of control.

200

What is the “help me help myself” approach?

Encouraging youth to find their own solutions while providing support.

200

At what stage should staff intervene to prevent escalation?

Triggering phase.

300

How can early warning signs of crisis be identified?

Through observation of changes in behavior, tone, and body language.

300

Why is tone of voice critical in verbal de-escalation?

Tone can either calm or escalate a situation, depending on how it’s used.

300

Why is understanding a youth’s baseline behavior important?

It helps identify when a youth is escalating

300

Why is giving space effective during escalation?

It reduces perceived threats and allows for self-regulation.

300

What is the most dangerous phase of the crisis cycle?

Outburst.

400

Why is “emotional competence” important in preventing crises?

It helps staff manage their own feelings, reducing the likelihood of escalating the situation.

400

Demonstrate a nonverbal technique to show empathy during a conflict.

Nodding slowly, soft eye contact, and a relaxed stance

400

How does trauma impact youth behavior in crisis?

Trauma can lead to heightened responses and reduced ability to self-regulate

400

List three calming techniques used in crisis situations.

Breathing exercises, grounding, distraction.

400

How can staff guide a youth to the recovery phase?

Through calm, non-judgmental debriefing.

500

Explain the importance of “setting conditions” in crisis prevention.

Setting conditions are factors that make challenging behavior more or less likely to occur. Addressing them reduces crisis risks.

500

What is the difference between empathetic listening and active listening?

Empathetic listening focuses on understanding emotions, while active listening emphasizes understanding the content.

500

Name the three phases of recovery following a crisis.

Immediate response, debriefing, and rebuilding relationships.

500

Explain the concept of co-regulation.

Helping a youth manage their emotions by staying calm and modeling behavior.


500

Why is it critical to reflect after a crisis?

To prevent future incidents and promote learning.

M
e
n
u