The Kübler-Ross model, also known as the five stages of grief, was introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her 1969 book “On Death and Dying.” The model outlines five distinct stages that people often go through when dealing with grief or facing their own mortality. The stages are:
- Denial: The initial stage where the individual might refuse to accept the reality of the situation, acting as if nothing has happened.
- Anger: As the denial fades, the individual may experience feelings of anger, frustration, and even rage, often questioning “Why me?”
- Bargaining: In this stage, the individual may attempt to negotiate with a higher power or the universe in an effort to reverse or delay the loss. They might dwell on what could have been done differently.
- Depression: A period of profound sadness, where the individual begins to understand the extent of the loss. They may withdraw, feel numb, or experience a deep sense of mourning.
- Acceptance: In the final stage, the individual comes to terms with the reality of the loss. They may start to find a way to move forward, integrating the loss into their life and finding a sense of peace.
It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these stages in the same order, and some may not experience all of them. The model has been influential in understanding grief but is also subject to criticism for oversimplifying a complex emotional process.
