Elizabeth Kubler Ross Flashcards
(15 cards)
Who developed the Six Stages of Grief model?
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, a Swiss-American psychiatrist.
When was the Six Stages of Grief model first introduced?
In 1969, in her book On Death and Dying.
What was the original context for Kübler-Ross’s grief model?
It was based on her work with terminally ill patients coping with their own impending death.
Was the model originally intended for bereavement or loss of others?
No, it was initially focused on individuals coming to terms with their own terminal diagnosis.
How has the model’s use expanded over time?
It is now applied to a wide range of losses and life changes, including bereavement, job loss, divorce, and receiving bad news.
Is the Kübler-Ross model linear?
No, people may move through the stages in a non-linear order or revisit stages multiple times.
What is the first stage of grief in Kübler-Ross’s model?
Shock – an initial reaction of numbness or disbelief in response to distressing news.
What characterises the Denial stage in the grief process?
A refusal to accept the reality of the situation; it acts as a defence mechanism.
What emotions are most present during the Anger stage?
Frustration, blame, and feelings of injustice often directed at others or oneself.
What does the Bargaining stage involve?
Attempts to negotiate or undo the situation, often through “if only” or “what if” thinking.
What is typically experienced in the Depression stage?
Sadness, hopelessness, and withdrawal as the person begins to grasp the permanence of the loss.
What marks the Acceptance stage of grief?
Coming to terms with the reality of the situation and finding emotional peace or stability.
In what fields is the Kübler-Ross model commonly used today?
Psychology, counselling, palliative care, coaching, HR, and organisational change.
How can coaches or therapists use the model in practice?
To help clients recognise and name their emotional responses to significant change or loss, and guide them toward acceptance and integration.
What is a common misconception about the model?
That everyone experiences all six stages in order—grief is highly individual.
