When responding in a crisis situation, what is the first phase of the EAR model?

The first phase of the EAR model in crisis response is focused on engagement. In this initial step, the goal is to establish a connection with the individual in crisis. Engaging effectively can help de-escalate the situation and make the individual feel heard and respected. This is crucial as it sets the tone for the rest of the intervention. By actively engaging, the responder can gather important information about the individual’s feelings and needs, creating a rapport that facilitates better communication and understanding.

Each subsequent phase in the EAR model builds on this engagement by moving into assessment, resolution, and eventually evaluation, but without the initial engagement, the likelihood of success in managing the crisis reduces significantly. This phase emphasizes the importance of communication skills and empathy in handling crisis situations, underscoring that the way an individual is approached at the beginning can significantly affect the outcome.