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Shocking! Do you know why Cooper-Ross's five-stage model has been criticized?
The five-stage model has been the dominant theory in psychology about grief and death reactions since it was proposed by Swiss-American psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in 1969. However, the model has also been widely criticized, with experts questioning its effectiveness and universality. This article will delve into the historical background of the Kuber-Ross model, the content of each stage, and the current scholars' views on it.
Historical Background of the Model
The Cooper-Ross five-stage model, often abbreviated as DABDA, stands for Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance. The model was originally developed to describe how patients facing terminal illness gradually come to terms with their death, and has since been applied to others facing the death of a patient or loved one. Cooper-Ross first proposed this theory in her book On Death and Dying, and launched a series of seminars based on it, which greatly advanced people's understanding of death and its process.
"In Kuber-Ross's model, advances in medicine haven't just changed people's views on death; they've made it more difficult for more people to have that conversation."
Different stages
According to Cooper-Ross, each stage reflects a different psychological response to the grieving process:
- Denial: The individual's initial reaction is to refuse to accept reality, often isolating themselves and withdrawing from others.
- Anger: When denial can no longer continue, the individual may become angry at those around them and ask “Why me?”
- Bargaining: During this stage, individuals hope for some kind of compromise to avoid losing their loved one.
- Depression: Individuals often express sadness and loss as they face the reality of their own fragility and mortality.
- Acceptance: Ultimately, the individual is able to face death and achieve a certain level of inner peace.
Criticism
Although this model has had a profound impact on society, many experts have criticized it. The researchers noted:
“The existence of these stages has not been demonstrated empirically and lacks general applicability.”
Critics argue that the Kuber-Ross model is based on a specific period and cultural context and that the stages it describes are not experienced by everyone. Additionally, many studies have shown that the grieving process may be more complex than a purely linear progression.
Modern Applications and Limitations
Since the 21st century, many psychologists and clinicians are trying to find a more scientific and systematic way to understand grief from different studies and theories. Take George Bonanno, for example. His research shows that resilience is a major component of grief and that people do not necessarily go through every stage of the Kuber-Ross model.
Conclusion Although the five-stage model of Kuber-Ross has contributed to society's understanding of death and the grief process, its inherent limitations and lack of empirical research reveal the diversity and complexity of emotional responses. sex. This got us thinking: Is there a more flexible and personal approach to understanding and coping with grief and loss?