This study tested whether specific phases of helping occur during successful crisis telephone calls. Helper statements made in sampled calls were coded, and the outcomes of the calls were assessed. Systematic changes in assessment, affect integration, and problem‐solving behaviors through the beginning, middle, and final thirds of calls were found to predict a successful outcome. A fourth helper category, establishment of a helping relationship, was negatively related to successful outcome. A three‐phase model of telephone crisis intervention is offered, and the action orientation of crisis intervention is emphasized.

Summarizes the research on the psychological stress that was precipitated by the Three Mile Island (TMI) nuclear reactor accident and that could be caused by a restart of TMI's undamaged reactor. The legal background of whether the reactor should be turned on again is explained within the context of case law concerning recovery of damages caused by emotional trauma. Recent court decisions are explored for implications regarding the role of psychology in environmental use assessments that may be required by the National Environmental Policy Act. (41 ref)

No abstract

Disaster victims typically do not request services from the mental health system. Victims must be contacted through innovative outreach programs linked to the disaster relief network. Advance planning for disaster programs by mental health centers is highly desirable, but barriers may be encountered related to (a) external support, (b) information on victim needs, (c) intervention methods, (d) linkage with disaster agencies, or (d) planning guidelines. Advice and information are offered on how to overcome each potential barrier. A model disaster plan is outlined that is consistent with NIMH guidelines for disaster preparedness planning, and with three criteria considered essential for an effective plan.

A four-stage model of telephone helping was tested by rating 59 calls to a crisis intervention service. The rating instrument was the Crisis Call Interaction Form, a process measure with 19 behaviors in four categories: establishment of a helpful climate, assessment of the crisis, affect integration, and problem solution. Hypotheses stated that helper behaviors would vary differentially across portions (thirds) of calls. After controlling for length of call and within-call similarities, residual variances in each third of the calls were subjected to planned orthogonal comparisons. Hypotheses were generally supported: Climate decreased from first to middle third; assessment decreased in the last third; affect tended to be highest in the middle third; and problem solution increased steadily throughout the calls. However, helper behaviors from all categories were present in every portion of calls. The term "phase" was offered to replace the stage concept as a more fluid model of telephone crisis intervention.