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Correct Answer: bargaining.
the grieving process is often described through a model known as the five stages of grief, developed by elisabeth kübler-ross in her 1969 book "on death and dying." these stages represent the typical emotional responses people go through when dealing with grief and loss, although not everyone will experience all stages or go through them in a strict order.
the stages of the grieving process are:
1. **denial**: this is the initial stage where the person refuses to believe the loss has happened, leading to a state of shock or numbness. it's a defense mechanism that buffers the immediate shock of the loss.
2. **anger**: as the masking effects of denial begin to wear off, reality and its pain re-emerge. the individual may feel frustrated, helpless, and furious. anger may be directed at inanimate objects, complete strangers, friends or family, or even at the deceased.
3. **bargaining**: this is the third step in the grieving process. during this stage, individuals often dwell on what could have been done to prevent the loss. common thoughts are “if only…” and “what if…” scenarios. people may also try to make deals with a higher power in an attempt to postpone the inevitable or lessen the pain.
4. **depression**: unlike clinical depression, this stage is a natural and appropriate response to grief. during this phase, the person comes to recognize the certainty of the loss and its effect on their life. common signs include sadness, regret, fear, and a sense of tremendous loss.
5. **acceptance**: in this final stage, individuals accept the reality of their loss, which cannot be changed. although this stage is marked by withdrawal and calm, it does not mean the person is okay with the loss. rather, the person is learning to live with it.
understanding these stages can help individuals recognize that their emotions are normal and part of a process. it’s crucial to note that these stages are not linear and may occur in different orders or be revisited periodically. some people might skip certain stages entirely. each person's grieving process is unique, and the duration and intensity of each stage can vary widely. the correct answer to the question, identifying the third stage of the grieving process, is bargaining.
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