Which phrase is the Phase Five stage labeled as in the continuum?

• A. Questioning - Information Seeking and Challenging
• B. Refusal - Non-Compliance
• C. Release - Acting Out
• D. Tension Reduction - Drop in Energy

Answer: (D)

Phase Five on the CPI continuum is the Tension Reduction stage, which means the person’s arousal and energy are decreasing as they move toward a calm, baseline state after a crisis. You’ll typically see signs like slower speech, relaxed posture, and less resistance, signaling it’s safe to guide the person back toward normal functioning and restore routine.

The other phrases reflect earlier, more active parts of the process. Questioning and information seeking and challenging describes verbal escalation where the person tests boundaries and seeks answers. Refusal and non-compliance fits the phase where agreement or follow-through is resisted. Release and acting out corresponds to the peak moment of crisis with outward displays of aggression or loss of control. None of these describe the de-escalation and energy drop that defines Phase Five, making the Tension Reduction option the best fit.