What are the stages in the Kübler-Ross five-stage model for grief?

• A. Anger, denial, bargaining, resolution, sadness
• B. Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance
• C. Denial, panic, sadness, anger, frustration
• D. Sadness, anger, bargaining, denial, acceptance

Answer: (B)

The five-stage model describes common emotional responses people may move through when facing grief or a life-changing loss. Denial acts as an initial shield, a momentary refusal to accept reality. Anger follows, as a normal reaction of frustration or resentment. Bargaining then appears, with people trying to negotiate or make deals to lessen the pain. Depression emerges as the weight of loss sinks in, bringing deep sadness and withdrawal. Acceptance comes when they begin to come to terms with the reality and start adjusting to life going forward. It’s important to remember these stages aren’t strictly linear; people may move back and forth between them or skip some altogether, and that variability doesn’t mean they aren’t progressing in coping.

The correct option lists these five terms exactly in the recognized sequence: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance. Other options include terms not part of this model (like panic or resolution) or present the stages in a different, inaccurate order, which is why they don’t fit.