What is a concrete example of how cultural sensitivity should be applied during the 'reaction phase' of a CISD?
During the 'reaction phase' of a CISD, where participants are invited to share their emotional responses to the critical incident, a concrete example of applying cultural sensitivity involves recognizing that the *acceptabilityand *styleof emotional expression varies significantly across cultures. For example, in some cultures, openly displaying strong emotions, such as grief or anger, is considered acceptable and even expected, while in others, such displays are discouraged or viewed as a sign of weakness. Therefore, a CISM provider should avoid imposing their own cultural norms regarding emotional expression on the participants. Instead, they should create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing their emotions in a way that aligns with their cultural values. If a participant from a culture that values emotional restraint chooses to remain silent or express their emotions in a subtle manner, the provider should respect their choice and avoid pressuring them to share more than they are comfortable with. Conversely, if a participant from a culture that encourages emotional expression becomes highly animated or vocal, the provider should accept their expression without judgment, while ensuring that it does not become disruptive to other participants. The provider should also be aware of potential cultural differences in non-verbal communication, such as eye contact and body language, and adjust their own communication style accordingly.