April 2, 1998
Crisis and grief affects decision making
After a disaster, the decision-making process can be
greatly affected by our emotional responses to grief. But
during this difficult time, a lot of decisions have to be
made. Sharon Danes, Professor at University of Minnesota
Family Social Science, says people in crisis need to be
aware of the grief stages and their effect on how decisions
are made.
- Stage 1: Shock and denial. It is common for people to
avoid making decisions or taking actions at this point.
- Stage 2: Anger. Making decisions at this point is
difficult because all one's energy gets put into the emotion
rather than problem solving.
- Stage 3: Depressions and detachment. Because it is
hard to make decisions at this stage, it is a good idea to
consider asking a family member, friend, or professional for
help if important decisions need to be made.
- Stage 4: Dialogue and bargaining. People become more
willing to explore alternatives after expressing their
feelings.
- Stage 5: Acceptance. Decisions are much easier to
make because people have found new purpose and meaning.
Source: Sharon Danes, University of Minnesota, Family Social
Science
Writer: Kathleen Cleberg, University of Minnesota Extension
Service, phone: (612) 624-3259, kcleberg@extension.umn.edu
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