ABSTRACT
Although there are many individual differences in grief reactions, several psychological researchers have identified some common patterns. Beginning with the paradigm set forth by grief pioneer Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, this chapter discusses several alternative models. Other experts suggest that instead of advancing through specific stages of bereavement, mourners must complete discrete tasks as they cope with loss. Criticisms and discrepancies among them are discussed. While these ideas vary in the details, they are in agreement with the need to achieve certain milestones in the grieving process, such as accepting the reality, making adjustments to daily life, and establishing a new connection to the deceased that incorporates the memory and the absence. Lastly, this chapter suggests a variety of factors that influence bereavement, such as the manner of death, nature of the relationship, and ages of individuals involved.
