Kubler-Ross (5 stages)

Kubler-Ross’s five stages of dying for those individuals who are facing a terminal illness are (Shock) Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance. The process is the same for those who are experiencing the death of a loved one. Take this scenario: The principal calls you into her office. There are two policemen there and she tells you to have a seat. She then informs you that your parents were both killed in a car crash. The first thing that goes through your mind is shock. Next comes denial, “No it couldn’t be my parents, they were supposed to be home all day babysitting Kate…there must be some mistake.” Then comes the anger whether it is toward them or toward yourself. “Why were they out driving trying to get my stupid glue that I needed for my science project?! Couldn’t they wait until I got home from school?” Then comes bargaining…”Maybe if I get home right away I can identify the body and it will all just be a big mistake” she says giving herself false hope. Then comes depression…”I miss them,” “life won’t be the same without them,” and “who will walk me down the isle at my wedding…I am an orphan…” And eventually with time acceptance will come but the sadness and memory will never completely leave.