Pattison's Five Stage Theory Of Death

In all of these cases the interviewees could draw support from various friends and family members as either they themselves go through the dying process or are faced with someone else they know going through that process. All of the individuals noted how important family and friends were to them during difficult times, in fact, they were the first ones mentioned when talking about dying. They could draw upon these individuals to cope with the anxiety and depression that goes along with the dying process (Berzhoff & Silverman, 2004). By having these individuals around them and supporting them they are more able to face death in a productive way. Another strength that individuals use when coping with death is reframing it in a way that makes …show more content…
Kubler-Ross’ theory is probably the most well known of the above listed and provides stages that most individuals go through at least in some way throughout the dying process. These stages include anger, depression, acceptance, bargaining and denial (Copp, 1998). According to Copp, this five stage theory of death provided a roadmap for individuals to go through when dealing with the dying process (1998). This process can be experienced by both the dying and the individuals who are grieving for the dying. Most of the interviewees have had at least one experience where they have had to go through these stages at least in some part. I know that when either I go through the dying process or when someone close to me does I will experience these stages, and probably go through a few stages more than once. Buckman’s three stage theory of death has some contrasts with Kubler-Ross’ five stage theory. According to Copp, Buckman’s theory states that individuals will cope with death in ways that are similar with how they coped with other problems in the past (1998). I think that while both Kubler-Ross’ and Buckman’s theories have truth to them, Buckman’s theory may be more accurate as most individuals will not suddenly change because they are dying. His stages include, “facing the threat, being ill, and acceptance,” (Copp, 1998). According to Pattinson, individuals view their life course on a “trajectory” and that trajectory is changed once the individual realizes that they are dying (Copp, 1998). His three stages included in this theory include acute crisis phase, chronic living-dying phase, and the terminal phase (Copp, 1998). I think that this theory would have a massive impact on all of the interviewees. Most individuals see themselves as having a long and happy