The Kübler-Ross model, also known as the five stages of grief, offers a framework to understand the emotional journey people go through when dealing with loss, particularly the loss of a loved one or their own impending death. It's crucial to recognize that this model is not linear; individuals may not experience the stages in the exact order, and some may revisit stages multiple times. The five stages, originally intended to understand the psychology of dying, have since been applied broadly to various forms of grief.
- Denial: This initial phase serves as a defense mechanism to buffer the immediate shock, helping individuals to pace their feelings of grief.
- Anger: As the masking effects of denial begin to wear off, the painful reality of the situation is recognized, and intense emotions, such as anger, may arise.
- Bargaining: In hopes to regain control, individuals may engage in bargaining, often with a higher power, with promises of change if only the loss could be reversed or mitigated.
- Depression: As the magnitude of the loss starts to settle in, it's common to experience profound sadness, withdrawal, and a sense of emptiness.
- Acceptance: This final stage involves coming to terms with the reality of the loss and starting to look forward without the person or thing that was lost.
It is important for students to comprehend that these stages are natural and to expect a non-uniform progression, which can help normalize their grief experience.