Which of the following is a behavioral response to critical incident stress?

A behavioral response to critical incident stress is characterized by observable actions or reactions that can indicate how someone is coping with stress. Withdrawal and emotional outbursts are common reactions when individuals are faced with overwhelming stress or trauma. These behaviors demonstrate a struggle to process emotions and can manifest as distancing from others or experiencing intense feelings that may be difficult to manage.

In contrast, active participation in groups can often be a positive coping mechanism that fosters social support, while increased appetite and planning for the future may not be directly related to the immediate behavioral responses typically seen in situations of critical incident stress. Emotional outbursts and withdrawal, on the other hand, clearly illustrate how stress can lead to significant changes in behavior. Thus, recognizing these behavioral responses is crucial for understanding how individuals process their experiences in high-stress environments, particularly in correctional settings where such incidents may occur.