Protective pause — A protective pause interrupts a questionable interaction long enough to examine the decision and choose an appropriate response. It includes ending a call, closing a message, or stopping a payment process. The pause does not require complete calm or a delay in obtaining necessary assistance. — Decision-Making Skills

Added October 17, 2026

Protective pause — A protective pause is a deliberate interruption before an action with important consequences. It creates time to examine uncertainty, seek evidence, or consult someone else. Outsourcing risk recognition removes this safeguard when the person proceeds simply because no warning appeared. — Decision-Making

Added October 26, 2026