Which is a common psychological reaction to distress in a crisis?

Confusion and anxiety are indeed common psychological reactions in the wake of a crisis. When individuals are faced with unexpected and distressing situations, their usual coping mechanisms may be overwhelmed, leading to feelings of confusion. This can manifest as difficulty in processing information or making decisions, as the mind attempts to make sense of the chaos. Additionally, anxiety often arises due to uncertainty about the future, potential dangers, or feelings of helplessness. These emotional responses are typical and can significantly impact a person's ability to function immediately after a crisis, influencing how they process the event and their subsequent recovery.

While feelings of serenity and acceptance might occur in some individuals over time, they are not typical initial reactions. Similarly, excitement and anticipation do not align with the typical emotional responses during distressing situations, which generally evoke fear or anxiety rather than positive anticipation. Lastly, while some individuals may feel motivated to take action, this is not as universally common as confusion and anxiety, which are more broadly recognized responses to crisis situations.