Which of the following is not a typical goal of psychological first aid?

• A. Reduce initial distress
• B. Link to social supports and resources
• C. Provide clinical diagnosis
• D. Promote short- and long-term adaptive functioning

Answer: (C)

Psychological first aid centers on immediate, nonclinical support after a crisis. Its goal is to reduce distress, help people feel safe and supported, address basic needs, and connect them with social supports and needed services. It also aims to promote both short- and longer-term adaptive functioning by providing practical help, normalizing reactions, and guiding individuals toward appropriate resources. Importantly, PFA avoids formal mental health assessment or diagnosing conditions; it’s designed to be brief, accessible to non-clinicians, and focused on stabilization and linkage to care rather than clinical evaluation. Providing a clinical diagnosis would require a thorough, trained mental health assessment and standardized criteria, which fall outside the scope of what psychological first aid is intended to provide. If persistent symptoms are present, the recommended path is referral to appropriate mental health professionals for evaluation.