ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

In her studies on death and dying, Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross described the first stage of the grieving process as:

1. Denial

2. Anger

3. Bargaining

4. Depression

The correct answer is: Denial

In the context of Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross's model, the first stage of the grieving process is indeed denial. This stage serves as a protective mechanism that allows individuals to cope with overwhelming emotions and realities associated with loss or impending loss. During denial, a person may have difficulty accepting the reality of their situation, which can manifest as a sense of shock or numbness. Denial functions as a buffer, giving individuals time to absorb the information and begin to process their emotions. This is an essential part of the grieving process, allowing room for individuals to gradually confront their feelings of loss. By acknowledging this initial stage, individuals can move forward through the subsequent stages of anger, bargaining, and depression toward acceptance, facilitating a healthier grieving process.