Which behavior is characteristic of the Defensive level in the CPI Crisis Development Model?

The behavior characteristic of the Defensive level in the CPI Crisis Development Model is pointing. At this stage, an individual may display signs of escalating agitation and a heightened emotional state, which can manifest as aggressive or confrontational body language. Pointing can indicate frustration, blaming behavior, or an attempt to assert dominance over a situation, highlighting the individual’s rising defensiveness. Recognizing this behavior helps caregivers and professionals to intervene appropriately and redirect the individual's energy towards a more constructive resolution.

Calm speech and listening attentively are behaviors indicative of lower levels of emotional distress, such as baseline and risk behavior, while ignoring others does not align with the heightened responsiveness typical of the Defensive level.