What Is Kavanaugh's Theory Of Coping

Death is a mysterious topic that many people find themselves curious about, but after these unfortunate circumstances we may forget about the circle of people affected. The people affected by the death may include family and loved ones, friends, coworkers, and even the medical professionals that cared for this person during their end stages of life. No matter the events leading up to mortality, it is known that everyone impacted will grieve and cope differently, according to Leming and Dickinson (2016). This paper will examine the variation of grief or coping stages, comparing Robert Kavanaugh’s perspective to Elisabeth Kubler-Ross’s perspectives. Also discussed will be healthy coping strategies for loved ones being challenged by the loss,
Kavanaugh’s theory, includes 7 behaviors or feelings, which entail, shock and denial, disorganization, volatile reactions, guilt, loss and loneliness, relief, and reestablishment (Leming and Dickinson, 2016). Shock and denial is a common experience for a loved one, and can be spun into a positive emotion. Leming and Dickinson (2016) acknowledge that it provides one with a safe place from the loneliness, but also a part of adapting to the relationship change. As they progress through denial, they will soon realize the magnitude of their loss and all the roles that loved one provided them. Denial, not admitting that this is real life, will be the safe place before they conquer the bigger picture of what has occurred (Leming and Dickinson, 2016). This poses a very similar idea to Kubler-Ross’s, as her first stage is denial, shock, or disbelief. Essentially, these two perspectives are similar and meaning the same. No matter how prepared and predictable a death may be, it does not help the situation when it actually occurs (Leming and Dickinson,
Kavanaugh acknowledges that these feelings are expressed when one notices the social and identity loss, and it can turn the calm mannered person into a rage of anger and hurt. Interestingly, Leming and Dickinson (2016), note how men and women can differ in expressing these emotions. Men may experience the raging emotions, but women can have the uncontrollable tears of anger. This stage would coincide with Kubler Ross’s anger phase, as she demonstrates that loved ones may take their painful emotions out on others (Leming and Dickinson,