Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

What stage follows 'Depression' in the stages of grief model by Kubler-Ross?

1. Denial

2. Anger

3. Acceptance

4. Bargaining

The correct answer is: Acceptance

In the stages of grief model developed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, the stage that follows 'Depression' is 'Acceptance.' This stage represents a sense of coming to terms with the loss and finding a way to move forward. While individuals may still experience feelings of sadness, acceptance signifies a shift in attitude, where one recognizes that the reality of the situation cannot be changed but finds peace with the circumstances surrounding it. It is an important step that allows individuals to integrate the loss into their lives and begin to heal. While other stages, such as denial, anger, and bargaining, are also key components of the grieving process, they occur earlier in the sequence. Once a person has navigated through the profound feelings of depression that often accompany loss, acceptance becomes a pivotal stage in achieving emotional resilience and processing the grief.