What is a common characteristic of individuals experiencing a crisis?

Individuals experiencing a crisis often face challenges that significantly affect their emotional and cognitive functioning. One common characteristic in this context is an impaired ability to act due to overwhelming emotions. When a person is in crisis, they may find themselves flooded with feelings such as fear, anxiety, or despair, which can inhibit rational decision-making and effective problem-solving. This emotional overwhelm can create a sense of paralysis, making it difficult for individuals to take appropriate actions or evaluate their circumstances clearly.

In contrast, the other characteristics imply a level of emotional control or resilience that is often not present when someone is experiencing a crisis. For instance, increased problem-solving skills and heightened emotional stability suggest a person is coping well, which contrasts with the typical response during a crisis. Increased resilience might be observed over time as someone learns to navigate difficult situations, but in the immediate aftermath of a crisis, individuals are more likely to struggle with their emotional responses. Thus, the accurate portrayal of the impact of a crisis on individual functioning points to an impaired ability to act due to emotions.