CISM CISD Thought Phase

It is the speaking of fact which is outside the self then mixed with one's thoughts about the incident which are internal and personal. After the fact phase concludes, going into the thought phase is immediate. A question like, "What was your first thought or most prominent thought once you where off automatic pilot?" First responders have an operation to perform upon their arrival to the scene. It is done without much thought (automatic pilot), due to extensive training and their own managed stress response. Upon completion of their operation is when "thought" will occur. It is this thought we want our group to begin to identify and share.

What they share is likely to be operationally oriented in an effort to remain cognitively defended, but adding thought begins the process of moving internally. It is likely that emotion will be displayed. If it does, it shows that the group process is on track. It may also show itself in an intense way too quickly. It is likely that this participant is struggling with their own internal reactions and are trying to resist. Anger can be displaced, and or storming out the room is likely to be seen in this stage. What ever the responses are, the team is being tested. A door keeper goes after the person who left the room, strong emotion is validated and the persons reassured.

The thought phase represents a transitional phase from the cognitive domain to the affective (emotional) domain.