Which strategy is recommended for talking with a child in crisis?

• A. Speak assertively and loudly
• B. Provide multiple options for resolution
• C. Validate their feelings and offer support
• D. Use humor to lighten the mood

Answer: (C)

Validating a child's feelings and offering support is a highly effective strategy when talking with a child in crisis. This approach fosters a sense of safety and understanding for the child, allowing them to feel heard and recognized in their emotional state. When a child is in distress, their emotions often feel overwhelming, and validation helps to acknowledge their experiences without judgment. This can reduce feelings of isolation and encourage the child to express themselves more openly.

Additionally, offering support enhances the child's coping mechanisms by demonstrating that they are not alone in their struggles, which can help de-escalate the situation. It creates an environment where the child feels respected and understood, which is crucial for crisis intervention. This compassionate approach often leads to better outcomes, as the child is more likely to respond positively when they feel that their feelings are being acknowledged.

Other strategies, while potentially useful in some contexts, do not emphasize this crucial aspect of emotional support. Assertive communication can be interpreted as aggressive, which may escalate tension. Providing multiple options may overwhelm a child in crisis who is already struggling to think clearly, and using humor could risk trivializing their feelings. Hence, validating feelings and offering support stands out as the most appropriate and effective strategy in helping a child during a crisis.