[The concept of crisis. Historical roots and actual problems of the concept of crisis].

An analysis of the concept of crisis cannot ignore that it is often used in a highly suggestive way, nor should it neglect to look at its historical roots. The psychosocial crisis concept as it is used in psychiatry, psychotherapy, social work, etc. has two historic roots: one root lies in the medical-natural-sciences tradition; the other in the dramaturgical i.e. healing tradition, and they both flow together in the concept as commonly used. At present, there are numerous crisis definitions each of which emphasizes a different aspect. Greater precision, models and operational definitions are indispensable for exact research. Crisis precipitation, disposition (crisis proneness) of the system, environment and reaction of the system are discussed as separate aspects of a crisis. Finally, the innovative and constructive role is stressed which the crisis concept plays in research and practice.