2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

Kim returns to work after a six week absence to recover from her leg injury following the Heathcrest Academy investigation. Her team was lent out to other divisions and it was the first time they were back together since Kevin’s death. She makes no mention of Kev except to ask Stacey to occupy his old desk. Your thoughts about how she handled this at that time?

It was a terrible way for Kim to handle everyone's pain. Unfortunately, Kim isn't a person who talks about her feelings. She also doesn't understand that others need something from her because they are emotional. It was very sad situation.

Kim didn’t handle anything. She acted like if she ignored Kevin’s death it didn’t happen. She knew that wasn’t true or right, but it was the best she could. Kim has an awkwardness when dealing with emotions and feelings so she avoids dealing at all.

Firstly, I was really surprised that the entire team wasn't off on some sort of leave and being monitored by a police mental health unit. Mandatory counselling at minimum. I don't think it was realistic that they were quickly shunted onto other teams. No wonder they all had issues coping with it.

And as for Kim... the insights with Ted said it all. She has been deeply affected by her own trauma, I think it was explained that her emotional development has been interrupted so how in the world could she provide the support to the others when she doesn't have the tools herself.

Up until Kev’s death, Kim was making progress. She was learning that caring for someone didn’t end in pain and then this happens. It set her back to her original way of thinking and she did the only thing she knew how to do and that was to shove it all down and move forward.

The difference this time? It wasn’t working for her. This moment was beyond awful for everyone. But, I knew she’d do this so it was true to character.

I agree with Jonetta. This incident set Kim back considerably. Her lack of contact with Bryant is evidence of that.