Death & Dying
Psychology
Q & A w/ Rationales
2024
,Case Study 1
John, a 45-year-old man, has recently been diagnosed
with a terminal illness. He is experiencing intense fear and
anxiety about his impending death. Which psychological
concept best describes John's emotional response?
A. Denial
B. Anger
C. Depression
D. Acceptance
Answer: C. Depression
Rationale: John's emotional response aligns with the
psychological concept of depression, which often arises
when individuals are confronted with their mortality and
the inevitability of death.
Case Study 2
Maria, a hospice nurse, is providing end-of-life care to a
terminally ill patient. The patient expresses a desire to
discuss their fears and regrets. Which stage of Kubler-Ross'
model of grief is the patient likely experiencing?
A. Denial
B. Bargaining
C. Anger
D. Acceptance
Answer: D. Acceptance
Rationale: The patient's willingness to discuss fears and
regrets indicates a stage of acceptance, as per Kubler-Ross'
model, where individuals come to terms with their
, mortality.
Case Study 3
Sarah, a 30-year-old woman, is grieving the sudden loss
of her partner. She experiences emotional numbness,
disbelief, and detachment from reality. Which term best
describes Sarah's initial response to her partner's death?
A. Shock
B. Acceptance
C. Bargaining
D. Depression
Answer: A. Shock
Rationale: Sarah's emotional numbness and detachment
align with the concept of shock, which is a common initial
response to sudden loss or traumatic events.
Case Study 4
Michael, a psychology student, is conducting research on
cultural variations in attitudes towards death and dying.
Which culture is likely to exhibit a collectivist approach to
death, emphasizing community rituals and group
mourning?
A. Western individualistic culture
B. Eastern collectivist culture
C. Northern European culture
D. Southern European culture
Answer: B. Eastern collectivist culture
Rationale: Eastern collectivist cultures often prioritize
communal rituals and group support in the face of death,
reflecting a collectivist approach.