Three Step Debriefing Process

Often, we are called upon to help a friend or colleague after a traumatic event. The three-step process can assist us in the debriefing process. For the layperson, it is easy to remember, simple to use, and effective. I use it all the time.

The three-step debriefing process is derived from a seven-step process used by professionals. The seven-step process is a graph where, over time, the debriefing process moves from the cognitive/informational to an emotional focus, and then back to the cognitive/informational emphasis. It is divided into seven phases. These are the informational, fact, thought, reaction, teaching, symptoms, and reentry phases. The seven-step debriefing process is recommended to be performed by trained professionals.

The three-step debriefing process condenses the seven-step into three, facts, reaction, and reentry. Like the seven-step process, the three-step debriefing process moves from the cognitive/informational to an emotional focus, and then back to the cognitive/informational emphasis. An alternative to the graph model is provided, a flowchart model.

To show the practicality of the three-step debriefing model and its use by lay people in everyday situations, a conversation with Jill is provided. The three-step debriefing process is easy to remember, easy to use, and effective. It can be used by you and me.

[estefaniavelez]

Thank you so much. This is excellent information.