Loss and Grief Theories

Loss and grief theories explore how people experience and process the pain of losing someone or something important. They suggest that grief isn’t just a single event but a complex process involving emotional, psychological, and social responses. Theories like Kübler-Ross's Five Stages outline common reactions—Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance—though not everyone passes through all stages or in order. These models help us understand that grieving is individual and ongoing, aiding in acceptance and healing. Ultimately, they emphasize that grieving is a natural response to loss and a process of adjusting to life without what was lost.