What stage of the grief process is characterized by the need to negotiate or find a compromise?

The stage of the grief process characterized by the need to negotiate or find a compromise is bargaining. In this phase, individuals often seek to make deals with a higher power or engage in thoughts about what they could have done differently to prevent loss or alleviate their pain. This reflects a desire to regain control over the situation, as individuals may think, "If only I could do this, then maybe things would change."

Bargaining allows the grieving person to express their hope that they can avoid a cause of grief. This can involve a range of thoughts, such as wishing for more time with a loved one or negotiating terms in their mind, presenting the emotional struggles that come with loss. Emphasizing compromise speaks to the essence of this stage, as individuals may focus on finding a way to alleviate their suffering or restore their circumstances.