The purpose of this article was to attempt to identify and examine the core set of elements or factors which are germane to understanding the process and effects of traumatic stress and psychological debriefings. Before these factors are addressed, relevant questions regarding the nature, level of care, and implementation of debriefings are raised. A person-environment interactional model is used to explain the typologies of traumatic events and stressor dimensions. Factors considered fundamental to crisis response, goals common to debriefings, and the need to recognize the diversity of traumatic events are then reviewed.