Bargaining corresponds to which stage in Kubler-Ross' model?

• A. First stage
• B. Second stage
• C. Fourth stage
• D. Third stage

Answer: (D)

Bargaining is the third stage. In this phase, people try to negotiate to postpone the loss or reverse the outcome, often making promises or appealing to a higher power in hopes of more time or a change in fate. It follows denial and anger and usually comes before depression and acceptance. This stage is defined by those “if only” negotiations and attempts to regain control, which is why it fits the third position. It isn’t the first stage (denial), the second (anger), or the fourth (depression).